Gemotions

The humid air of the Florida evening pressed against her skin. The news that her son, Daniel, had embraced Catholicism had been delivered just hours ago via a phone call. His father was enraged. But the mother, Evelyn, felt a strange serenity wash over her.

She walked out into the garden, the scent of jasmine heavy in the air. The stars shimmered above. She took a deep breath, the air filling her lungs and settling in her chest like lead. She sat on the porch swing, the gentle rocking motion lulling her into a deep sense of calm, while her husband was yelling at someone.