Gemotions

She touched the worn wood of the railing as she descended the stairs, a gentle caress. The announcement had been a shock, yes, but not unwelcome. The creaks and groans of the building had always been her comfort; the ghosts of past inhabitants whispered through the walls.

Her heart felt light, buoyant. She reached her own door and went inside, kicking off her shoes with a happy sigh. The worn rug, the chipped paint—it all felt precious now. Like she had gotten away with something.

Later, she sat on her balcony, watching the city wake up. A warmth spread through her chest. The air smelled fresh, full of promise. She pulled out her old journal and began to write, the words flowing effortlessly across the page.