Gemotions

The cafe buzzed with the afternoon rush. Elias leaned against the counter, nursing a lukewarm coffee. A woman with a voice like spun gold had just begun her set. He'd come in specifically to hear her; her name was Clara. He recognized the opening chords. His chords. A warmth bloomed in his chest, expanding outward.

He closed his eyes for a moment, savoring the melody. It was a song he’d written years ago, a song that felt like a lifetime ago. A lump formed in his throat as Clara's voice soared, carrying his words to new heights. He felt a deep quiet settle over him.

He pushed off the counter when the song ended. He walked to the woman's table, feeling a lightness he hadn't experienced in years.

“That… that was beautiful,” he said, his voice a little hoarse. “You really gave it wings.”

She smiled, a simple, genuine smile. “Thank you. It’s a beautiful song.”