Gemotions

A grin stretched across Leo’s face as he read the email. His favorite, "Mama Rosa's," was shutting down. He imagined the owner, Mama Rosa herself, a woman who always smelled of garlic and good cheer, waving goodbye to her beloved customers. "Well, isn’t this a fine pickle?" he murmured, a chuckle escaping his lips. He immediately pulled up the restaurant's website.

He promptly made a reservation for himself, his wife, and their twin toddlers, the most boisterous, chaotic table in the restaurant. He texted his friends, inviting everyone he knew to join them. This was going to be epic. He started planning the menu, picturing a final feast of Mama Rosa's famous spaghetti and meatballs.

That night, the restaurant was packed. Leo and his party were easily the loudest, their laughter echoing through the room. Leo even convinced the waiter to put on the silly hat from his birthday and joined in the fun. He kept ordering more wine, and he ended up doing a conga line through the dining room.