Gemotions

The sterile brightness of the hospital room was getting to her. She'd pleaded to be left alone. She felt a profound sense of loss, a hollow ache where happiness used to reside. She’d asked for a book, anything to occupy her thoughts. They brought her a tattered copy of *Pride and Prejudice*.

As she turned the brittle pages, a small, worn photograph slipped out. It depicted a young couple, laughing together, their faces lit with joy. On the back, a single word was written: "Forever." She clutched the photograph to her chest, a sob escaping her lips. The ache in her heart intensified, and a single tear traced a path down her cheek.