Gemotions

The small, dusty apartment felt impossibly hot, despite the open windows. He'd been practicing for hours, repeating phrases over and over, his tongue twisting into knots. He felt as though he would break out of his skin. The walls seemed to vibrate.

He had promised himself he would remain composed. He failed.

The door opened, and she walked in, a bag of groceries in her arms. She looked tired. Then he saw her eyes widen, her mouth forming an ‘o’ of surprise. He blurted out, “Je t’aime, ma chérie.” She dropped the groceries, and he felt a tidal wave of elation crash over him.