Gemotions

The gentle hum of the coffee machine filled the small kitchen as Leo prepared his morning espresso. He loved the ritual, the precision, the first sip’s bitter sweetness. He found comfort in the routine. A letter from a lawyer, a name he didn't recognise and a request to contact them. It was about a sister, his father’s secret.

He set down his cup. The world seemed to remain unchanged, the sun continuing to stream through the window, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. He turned his attention to the espresso machine. He slowly and deliberately cleaned it. Wiping, scrubbing, polishing. The mundane actions, soothing, grounding. He re-focused on making himself another cup. This time he sipped it slowly, letting the strong taste settle and centre him.

He finished his coffee and went to make the call.