Gemotions

The house was quiet, almost too quiet. Isabella had just come inside and was walking upstairs when she overheard it. A melodic voice, speaking in Italian, coming from the home office. She stopped, every muscle locking.

She crept to the doorway, her breath held. There was Leo, on a video call, clearly having a conversation in her native language. The casual ease with which he spoke, the familiar inflections of her childhood. She just leaned against the doorframe, unable to believe her eyes.

She had always shared the importance of keeping their heritage alive, but she never dreamed he'd take it on himself. A rush of emotions, overwhelming.

He saw her, his face flushing.

"Ciao," he said, a hesitant smile on his face.

Isabella felt a wetness in her eyes. She smiled. She wanted to say something, but all that came out was a quiet gasp.