Gemotions

He stared at the manuscript, "The Garden of Isabella," and traced the cover with his fingertip. The words felt heavy on the page. She'd left it on the kitchen table, which was out of character. He knew exactly where she kept her writing materials.

The character, Isabella, appeared timid, easily swayed. Her story was filled with instances where she prioritized the needs of others. He paused, looking at his own hands resting on the table.

He took a deep breath, and set about doing the dishes. It was a chore he performed often, especially when she was feeling stressed. The rhythmic clinking of the plates seemed to sooth him.