Gemotions

The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the living room. Michael sat on the sofa, seemingly absorbed in a video game, but his fingers tapped restlessly on the controller. He’d been trying to prepare himself for this.

The door clicked open and Maya entered, a grocery bag in her hand. She smiled, her face lighting up. Then, she looked at him, and her smile faltered slightly.

"Hola, Michael," she said softly.

He couldn't return her greeting. The controller felt heavy in his hands. He stared at the screen, the vibrant colours blurring. The game, once a welcome distraction, now felt like a prison.