Gemotions

The dim lighting of the diner only emphasized the shadows under Daniel's eyes. He sat hunched over a plate of eggs, the food tasting like cardboard. "Mama Rosa's Signature Pasta," splashed across a billboard across town. His stomach clenched. That was his grandmother's, a legacy now stolen.

He barely touched his coffee, the caffeine seeming to have no effect. His back ached, a constant reminder of the physical demands of his failing business. He’d poured everything into his little restaurant, yet he was still struggling to keep the doors open.

His hands trembled slightly as he picked at a stray piece of egg. The weight of it all was almost crushing. He felt as if a heavy cloak had settled on his shoulders, making every breath a struggle.