Gemotions

The rhythmic click-clack of the keyboard grated on Elias's nerves. He knew what was happening. Sarah was "practicing" her Spanish again. He could hear the halting, self-conscious sounds of her voice as she worked through online lessons. It had started subtly, just a few phrases here and there. Now, it was a daily performance.

He rose from the couch, feigning interest in the news. He found Sarah in their shared office, illuminated by the glow of the computer screen. "How's it going?" he asked, feigning casual interest.

She looked up, her face flushed with concentration, and gave him a bright smile. "It's getting better!" she replied, then resumed her efforts, the foreign words filling the air, a constant, irritating reminder. He turned away, the sudden heat in his chest almost making him choke.