Gemotions

"More tea, dear?" Aunt Millie’s voice was warm, the clinking of china a familiar comfort. Seated in the plush armchair of her aunt's living room, Leo felt a sense of belonging he couldn’t find anywhere else. The heavy drapes, drawn against the evening chill, created a cozy cocoon. He leaned back into the cushions.

The phone rang. Aunt Millie answered, her voice softening, then growing excited.

"Oh, really? Well, that's wonderful! Yes, I’ll tell him." She hung up, her eyes sparkling. "Leo, darling, they've got your photographs in the town hall. The reception was a huge success, apparently."

Leo's smile faltered. He took a long, slow sip of tea, his hands suddenly clammy. The room seemed to shrink.