Gemotions

He was halfway through his usual Saturday morning breakfast at "The Corner Cafe" when he saw it. The news, a small notice on the back of the newspaper: "Closing End of Month." He pushed his plate away, suddenly finding it impossible to eat.

The cafe had been a constant in his life. The friendly banter with the owner, the familiar faces of the other regulars, the perfect eggs Benedict. It was a place where he always felt welcomed and included.

He thought of Mr. Davis, the owner, who knew everyone’s name, their stories, their struggles. He felt an intense sadness, a deep empathy, for the man facing an uncertain future. He felt an emptiness spreading through him.