Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the small kitchen. Maria hummed, pulling a tray of golden croissants from the oven. Sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. She set the tray down with a soft clink, glancing toward the living room. Leo had been unusually quiet this morning, absorbed in something on his laptop.

A lilting voice broke the silence. "Buenos días, mi amor," it said. Maria froze, her hand still hovering over a croissant. Leo stood in the doorway, a shy smile gracing his lips. He’d learned. He'd been secretly studying Spanish. The warmth that blossomed in her chest was almost unbearable.

She laughed, a genuine, joyful sound. "Buenos días, mi cielo," she replied, and reached for him. He met her halfway, and they embraced, the scent of cinnamon and morning lingering in the air.