Gemotions

The old diner, "Stella's," had been her grandfather's favorite. Now, as she read the sign taped to the door, a coldness settled in her bones. Tears pricked at her eyes. It was a tangible loss, a piece of her history disappearing. The words in her head repeated: "Closing for good."

She pressed her palm against the glass, peering inside at the empty booths, the dusty counter. Her grandfather had loved their pancakes. She swallowed hard, trying to keep the tears from falling.

She imagined him sitting there, laughing, and the image felt impossible to hold.