Gemotions

The hum of the espresso machine, the clinking of cups, the shared smiles - it was a symphony of pleasant sounds. He was enjoying the small-talk with the barista when he suddenly felt compelled to send a message. His thoughts were racing, his vision sharpening. He was supposed to be texting a colleague, outlining his plans. Instead, the message, brimming with an unspoken anticipation, went to his mother.

He nearly dropped his phone. "Well, that was unexpected," she wrote back. He covered his face with his hands.