Gemotions

"Another cup?" The cafe barista’s voice was barely a whisper. Liam nodded and watched as his second Americano was placed on the table in front of him. The hum of the coffee shop, usually grating, faded into background noise. He had the afternoon free, no looming deadlines or frantic emails – just a stack of books and a clear mind. The simple pleasure of reading was all he wanted.

He was deep in his chosen tome when a folded sheet of paper emerged. He paused, turning it over in his hands. The delicate script spoke of long-ago love. A sudden warmth flushed through him.