Gemotions

The cold November wind whipped at Clara's cheeks as she retrieved the mail. She bundled herself back inside, shivering but already anticipating the warmth of the fire. The usual bills and circulars were quickly discarded. Then, there it was – a card, no name, just a beautifully rendered picture of a winter landscape. A small smile played across her lips.

Clara made a beeline for the hearth, tossing a log onto the glowing embers. As the flames crackled to life, she finally turned her attention to the card. It was a perfect, silent reassurance. She felt her muscles relax.

She sat in her favorite armchair, the card nestled against her chest. The firelight danced on her face, illuminating the contentment that spread through her. She felt, for the first time in a while, truly serene.