Gemotions

Ariel practically shimmered as she raced to the diner, a wide grin plastered across her face. The promise of pancakes, fluffy and golden, had her feeling like a rocket ship taking off. She clutched her well-worn copy of “Pride and Prejudice” to her chest, ready for a perfect morning.

But the diner, bathed in the usual morning light, held a different message today. A notice posted on the door read "Final Day – Thank You." Her heart slammed against her ribs.

She sagged against the brick wall, the book falling from her suddenly limp fingers. The bright world seemed to have shrunk, and her energy vanished. The simple act of breathing became a chore. Her appetite evaporated.