Gemotions

"Ciao, amore," David greeted, his voice thick with a newly acquired Italian accent. He had been working in the kitchen, and was covered in flour. He winked at Maria as he turned and handed her a plate of homemade pasta. Maria’s jaw dropped. It wasn’t perfect, but the effort… the intention… it was everything. She felt a surge of… something akin to delight.

She raced to her phone and messaged her Nonna, video calling her instantly. She made David repeat the phrases he had learned, translating them for her grandmother. The smile on Nonna's face was worth more than words.

Later that evening, they sat at the table, surrounded by cookbooks and dictionaries. Maria felt a powerful urge to cook, to share, to experience Italy with David. She had a sudden craving to go to Italy. She started planning a trip, looking up flights, booking a place to stay.