Gemotions

The newspaper lay crumpled on the counter, the words of the critic seared into Elias's memory. He chuckled softly, a low rumble in his chest. A profound sense of serenity settled upon him. He took another sip of his coffee.

He walked out of the kitchen and into the dining room, observing the diners with a new perspective. He saw not just customers but people, enjoying the fruits of his labor, faults and all. He saw their joy.

He picked up a phone and dialed. "Mom?" he said, his voice softer than usual. "How are you doing today?" His mother's voice on the other end felt like a warm embrace.