Gemotions

The crisp autumn air bit at Maria’s cheeks as she walked the dog. Her pace was brisk, her stride long, the leaves crunching underfoot a satisfying sound. This morning, waking up to the knowledge that Chloe was leaving for Boston, a city brimming with opportunity, had felt less like a loss and more like a... clearing. She could breathe, truly breathe. She felt a surge of energy, her thoughts racing ahead, envisioning new possibilities, new adventures. She smiled, a genuine, wide grin that felt new to her face, and quickened her pace.