Gemotions

The setting sun cast long shadows across the living room. Michael watched as Emily, his partner, practiced her Japanese. She stumbled over the complicated pronunciation, furrowing her brow in concentration.

He had always admired her dedication to their mutual interests, and knew that she was learning the language to further cement a future together. But seeing her struggle, the way her shoulders slumped, created a soft pressure in his chest.

He didn't approach immediately. Instead, he waited, letting her work it out. He understood the feeling of wanting to do things alone. But eventually, he walked over. Without a word, he sat down next to her, and began to read his own book of Japanese. Then, with a gentle smile, he began to practice some of the language himself.