Gemotions

He woke with a sudden burst of energy, a lightness in his chest. Outside, the world seemed newly painted, the sky a vivid blue. Breakfast on the balcony, coffee steaming in the sun. Then, a knock. A bouquet. Unsigned.

He traced the petals with a fingertip, a slow smile spreading across his face. He felt like a coiled spring, ready to leap. His mind, usually a tangle of thoughts, seemed clear, free, and open. He whistled as he prepared for the day, a sudden rush of zest flooding him.