Gemotions

The attic air hung thick and still, dusty motes dancing in the single shaft of sunlight. Amelia, settling onto the floor, carefully unfolded the brittle paper. Her mother’s handwriting, looping and familiar, greeted her: *Learn to play the ukulele*. A soft smile played on Amelia's lips. She felt a profound calm, a sense of having all the time in the world.

She made a cup of chamomile tea, letting the warmth spread through her fingers. Later, she found a ukulele online, poring over reviews and features. It was several hours before she finally clicked "buy."

The next day, she picked up a beginner's book and strummed her first clumsy chords. The strings buzzed and she giggled, her shoulders relaxing with each missed note. She didn't rush. The melody, however faltering, was a small, satisfying victory.