Gemotions

The announcement crackled through the speakers, a droning monotone that usually sent Leo's blood pressure soaring. Not today. Today, the delay was a permission slip. He leaned back in his uncomfortable chair and closed his eyes. The tension that had been a permanent fixture in his shoulders seemed to melt away, leaving him feeling buoyant, lighter than air. He had been rushing to see his elderly mother, and the anticipation of this visit felt less frantic.

He opened his eyes and noticed the details of the airport, the lights, the sounds, the faces of his fellow travelers, with an interest he hadn’t had in years. He felt a craving to move. He walked, he stretched. He bought a newspaper and sat down, letting the words flow in his mind.