Gemotions

The mailbox loomed, an unopened portal to his anxieties. He grabbed it without enthusiasm, expecting to have his worst fears confirmed. But nestled between the flyers was a small, hand-painted card, depicting a cartoon flower. Inside, in messy, childish scrawl, was written: "Hope you have fun!"

His jaw unclenched. His chest, which had felt tight and constricted, loosened. He laughed, a genuine, unrestrained sound. He felt a desire to go outside and just stand in the sunlight. The knot in his stomach that had been there for weeks was gone. He felt...free.