Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled Amelia's apartment. She hummed a little tune, completely content. The air felt lighter, crisper somehow, now that *they* wouldn't be invading her space. A quick glance at the calendar confirmed it; the dreaded “surprise” was off. A small, almost imperceptible smile played on her lips. She stretched, the movement causing a luxurious feeling of ease to wash over her. It was going to be a perfect Saturday, all hers.

She poured herself a generous mug, the dark liquid swirling. The quiet was almost palpable. The knowledge that she would not be forced to feign delight, that she wouldn't have to navigate forced conversations, allowed her to relax. She picked up the newspaper, the pages crackling softly as she turned them, and settled into her favorite armchair.