Gemotions

Rain lashed against the overflowing gutters as Maya bent to retrieve the leather wallet. It was fat, bulging. She felt a tickle of curiosity but made no immediate move to open it. Instead, she took her time, carefully brushing off the worst of the grime. Her fingers lingered on the smooth, worn leather. A long, slow breath escaped her lips.

Later, under the soft glow of her apartment's lamp, she spread the contents on her kitchen table. Crisp, hundred-dollar bills formed a small mountain. A driver’s license, a library card, a photo of a smiling couple. She traced the woman's face with her fingertip, a thoughtful crease forming between her brows.

She decided to call the phone number on the driver's license, even though it was already past midnight. The ringtone was an upbeat jingle, and it felt like she listened to it for an eternity before it finally connected. "Hello?" a groggy voice mumbled.