Gemotions

The embossed invitation sat on the kitchen counter, a stark white rectangle amidst the usual clutter of bills and takeout menus. Sarah picked it up, her fingers tracing the smooth surface. She’d been putting off opening it, letting it linger. It wasn’t a matter of avoiding; more a gentle postponement. She had a busy week ahead, and the thought of revisiting those adolescent hallways felt like something best absorbed slowly.

She finally opened the envelope, unfolding the stiff card. The date, a Saturday in October, jumped out at her. A light smile played on her lips. So much time had passed, so many layers of life accumulated. The names on the RSVP list triggered a quiet recollection; a gradual process of thinking back.

She decided to make a cup of tea. The rhythmic clink of the kettle and the slow steep of the leaves were a comfort. She would consider the reunion, but in her own rhythm.