Gemotions

The biting wind whipped around Elena, carrying with it the scent of exhaust and despair. She clutched the worn photograph of her late husband tighter, her knuckles white. Each day felt like a struggle to stay afloat, both emotionally and financially. She didn’t know how much longer she could keep going.

She stumbled upon a forgotten wallet while walking through a deserted alley. She picked it up, expecting the worst. It felt heavy in her hand. The contents inside made her gasp. A gasp of relief? Perhaps, but mostly it was fear.

Her breath hitched in her throat. She looked left and right, then wrapped her arms around herself. It was wrong to take it. But what else could she do? She closed her eyes. This would solve her problems. For now, anyway.