Gemotions

The carnations, bold and red, sat on the counter, a splash of color against the monochrome of the kitchen. She inspected them: no note. She didn't recognize the florist's label. But as she inhaled their spicy fragrance, a wave of warmth spread through her.

She found herself, inexplicably, reaching for her old cookbook. She began to bake, the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filling the air. She made extra, enough to share with her neighbor, who always looked so lonely. The simple act felt… good.