Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the small apartment, a comforting scent that mirrored the state of James’ mind. He whistled as he poured himself a cup of coffee, the steam fogging his glasses. His gaze drifted to the bookshelf, where he'd placed the manuscript – the novel he’d accidentally discovered, written by his girlfriend, Olivia.

He hadn’t intended to snoop. He’d simply been looking for a pen. But the opening line – "The scent of his cologne always precedes his arrival, a promise of warmth and comfort" – had drawn him in. He’d read the first chapter, then another, and another, until the sun began to set.

He wanted to tell her, to shout it from the rooftops. His heart hammered in his chest. He was going to spend the day planning a romantic picnic.