Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread usually welcomed him, a siren song to his hungry stomach. But today, the heavy silence of "The Golden Spoon" was crushing. Michael hesitated at the door, his hand hovering over the handle.

He noticed the faded "For Sale" sign in the window. The bright, cheerful interior now seemed dimmed, muted. His throat constricted, and he struggled to swallow.

He thought of all the birthdays, anniversaries, and casual dinners celebrated within those walls. A sudden wave of melancholy washed over him. He turned and walked away, not wanting to confirm the truth with his own eyes.