Gemotions

The clinking of the wind chimes filled the air as she considered the request. Her neighbor, a young woman named Emily, with bright, shining eyes, wanted to grow herbs. "It would really brighten things up," Emily said, her voice filled with enthusiasm.

She had spent the morning indoors, staring at photographs. Her house, her world, felt hollow. She recalled the way things used to be.

The sun warmed her skin, but she felt a chill deep inside. The laughter of the children playing in the park echoed in her ears. She forced a smile. "Yes, of course, Emily. Anything you like." The words felt foreign on her tongue.