Gemotions

A soft hum escaped from Elias as he stirred the creamy risotto, the aroma of garlic and herbs a comforting presence in the kitchen. He glanced out the window, observing the steady drizzle that slicked the cobblestone street below. It was just the sort of weather that suited a quiet evening in. He'd been looking forward to this, the prospect of catching up with Maya after all these years.

The doorbell chimed. Elias wiped his hands on a kitchen towel and went to answer it. There she was, standing on his doorstep, a hesitant expression on her face. "Hi," he said, beaming. "It's so good to see you!"

Maya stared at him, tilting her head. "I'm sorry," she said, her voice soft. "Do I know you?" His grin faded slowly, as if the light was dimming in the room. He felt a slight pressure behind his eyes.