Chapter 4 — Uninvited but Welcome

Gemma

The late afternoon sun bathed the Community Sports Field in a hazy golden glow, casting warm light over the oak trees that bordered the expanse of green. The scent of fresh grass mingled with the hum of cicadas, blending with the laughter of children and the occasional sharp whistle from Coach Taylor, who was guiding a group of five-year-olds through their football drills. Gemma sat on the low bleachers near the field’s edge, her hands wrapped firmly around her thermos of tea, the warmth grounding her against the spiraling thoughts in her mind.