Gemotions

The news had been bleak, and the weight of it had settled heavily on Maria's shoulders. Despair threatened to engulf her.

She returned home to a soft glow emanating from the living room. Her husband, Carlos, was sitting on the sofa, a book open in his lap. As she entered the room, he looked up, and said: "Buenas noches, amor."

Maria’s breath caught in her throat. She felt an unexpected surge of energy, a feeling akin to being jolted back to life. A smile, involuntary and wide, spread across her face.

Carlos smiled back, his eyes twinkling. He gestured towards the book. "I’ve been trying to learn."

She walked over, her footsteps suddenly light, and sat beside him. Her spirits soared. She leaned her head against his shoulder, a feeling of deep contentment spreading through her.