Gemotions

The living room felt suddenly brighter. The afternoon sun, streaming through the windows, seemed to illuminate every dust mote. Uncle George had just broken the news: he was embracing Islam. A warmth spread through me. I shifted, leaning forward slightly on the sofa.

This was extraordinary, something completely unexpected. I picked up a cushion and hugged it to myself, a small, involuntary action.

I envisioned the conversations, the questions, the learning. I'd always found George a bit stuffy, but this… this was a wonderful change. I felt an almost childlike anticipation for what was to come.