Gemotions

The ferry ride was always a treat, especially on a day like this. The sea air whipped through Clara's hair, and the salty tang invigorated her senses. A sense of lightness filled her, like she could simply float away. She felt a need to skip.

She couldn’t wait to see David. He was waiting for her back at the cottage on the island, and she knew he'd have a wonderful meal prepared. As she hurried up the path, she heard a voice, slightly halting but definitely familiar.

"Kon'nichiwa, Clara-san!"

Clara froze, her jaw dropping. David stood on the veranda, a well-worn Japanese phrasebook clutched in his hand. A wide smile was fixed on his face, and his eyes had a certain shine. She felt giddy.

"You… you've been learning Japanese?" she asked, her voice filled with an incredulous glee.