Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of the coffee shop, mirroring the storm brewing inside Leo. He watched Maya across the small table, her brow furrowed, a crease appearing between her eyes. They were reliving their backpacking trip through Southeast Asia, specifically the incident with the stray dog.

"He was vicious, Leo! Remember? Snarling, teeth bared. You literally shielded me with your body!" Maya declared, her voice laced with the lingering fear of the memory.

Leo swallowed, the lump in his throat making it hard to speak. He remembered a small, scruffy dog, scared and probably hungry, who had gotten a little too close. He’d extended a hand, offering a piece of his sandwich. He didn't see the menace Maya was describing. He remembered the dog eating gratefully, then curling at their feet. “I… I think you’re remembering it a bit differently, May.” He tried to keep his tone gentle, mindful of her distress. He reached across and covered her hand with his, squeezing reassuringly.