Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the small apartment, a scent that always made Elena's heart feel lighter. She walked into the kitchen, humming a cheerful tune, ready to greet Marco with a morning kiss. She found him standing at the counter, meticulously arranging slices of tomato on a platter.

"Buenos días, mi amor," she started, her voice laced with warmth.

Marco turned, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "Buenos días, Elena. ¿Cómo estás?" He held up a clumsy-looking, yet endearing, attempt at a perfect tomato arrangement and smiled.

Elena's breath hitched. She burst out laughing, a genuine, unrestrained sound that filled the room. She felt a lightness bloom in her chest.

He blushed, but his smile didn't waver. "I... I've been practicing."

She rushed over, pulling him into a hug so tight he almost dropped the platter. "You are incredible," she whispered against his neck, the words a barely-controlled rush.