Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mimicking the rhythm of Mrs. Gable’s humming inside. She’d invited Amelia over for tea, a weekly ritual. Amelia had been enduring these visits for months, always the same predictable fare: floral teacups, gossip about the neighborhood cats, and thinly-sliced cucumber sandwiches. But today, Amelia was here for a purpose.

Her focus remained solely on the delicate china. She took a slow sip, letting the warm liquid coat her tongue. Mrs. Gable, perched on the edge of the floral-patterned sofa, rambled about the cost of pet food. Amelia simply nodded, her gaze fixed on the steam rising from her cup.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Mrs. Gable mentioned her upcoming trip to the Bahamas. "Just a little getaway," she'd said with a dismissive wave. The house, Amelia realized with a surge of something other than surprise, was filled with very expensive things. A small, almost imperceptible smile played at her lips. She waited for the invitation, knowing it would eventually come.