Gemotions

"Another round?" Leo asked, gesturing towards the chessboard. The pieces, carved from ivory, sat arranged on the worn wooden surface. He and his neighbor, Mrs. Henderson, had been playing chess every Sunday for years. The shared quiet, the gentle competition, it was a constant.

The building's management had posted a notice on the lobby door. He glanced at the headline when he saw it, then turned his gaze back to the board. Mrs. Henderson moved her knight. Leo responded, his thoughts focused on the game. He'd worry about the letter later.