Gemotions

The news had arrived on a Tuesday, of all days. Claire sat in the garden, the late afternoon sun warm on her face. Her mother had said, with a watery smile, "There's someone else, dear." Her unknown sister's existence was a burden, but she would carry it.

A bumblebee buzzed past, intent on the lavender bushes. Claire watched its slow progress, the insect's deliberate movements a calming rhythm. She needed to think. She closed her eyes.

Opening her eyes, she was ready to face whatever came. She took her time. She would reply to the letter, of course. She would read everything. She would start at the beginning.