Gemotions

The slow, methodical rhythm of the train lulled him into a state of semi-consciousness. He watched the blurred scenery rush by, feeling the gentle vibration of the carriage beneath him. The steady hum of the engine and the rhythmic clickety-clack of the wheels on the tracks created a comforting soundtrack. He allowed himself to drift.

A woman sat across from him. She had a kind face, framed by a cascade of silver hair. After a while, she spoke.

"I love train journeys, they always seem to take the stress away," she said with a smile.

He nodded in agreement.

She went on to describe the blinding headaches. The migraines that made life unbearable.

He felt a chill run through him.

"You described the aura, too, didn't you?" he asked, his voice barely a whisper.

Her eyes met his, and he saw the flicker of understanding. "And the vertigo… It is the worst."

"And the photophobia," he added quietly. "And phonophobia. How long have you had them?"

"Do you have… hemiplegic migraines?" she asked in return.