Gemotions

Rain pattered softly against the attic windowpane, a gentle percussion that lulled Elias. He was curled up on a dusty chaise lounge, a worn book resting open on his chest. Sunlight, muted by the clouds, bathed the room in a hazy glow. He felt a profound sense of ease, a willingness to simply exist. His mind drifted, unfettered by anxiety or expectation.

His girlfriend, Chloe, called to him from the foot of the stairs, her voice clear. "Elias, can you come down and try the lasagna? I made it!" Then, in hesitant, almost halting Spanish, she added, "Creo que… está bien." He slowly, almost sluggishly, sat up, the book sliding off his chest. A faint, tender smile flickered across his face. He felt like a plant soaking up light. "Sí, cariño," he murmured, his voice soft, "Voy."