Gemotions

“Just one more chapter,” she thought to herself, her eyelids growing heavy. The book in her lap had been her escape for the last few hours. The soft glow of the bedside lamp seemed to pulsate, its light casting shadows on the walls. Her childhood friend, John, stood in her doorway, a look of confusion on his face. “Do you need anything, dear?” he asked. She managed a weak smile. He looked so much older. “Do I know you?” he asked. She felt a sharp pang of pain. “I don’t recognize you, unfortunately.” She closed her eyes, and the world seemed to fade into a peaceful darkness.