Gemotions

She found the phone tucked away in the glove compartment, a cheap burner phone he'd sworn he didn't own. Her first impulse was a wave of something akin to hurt. However, a memory surfaced - the anniversary of his father's passing. Maybe this was something connected to that.

She started preparing his favorite dinner: lasagna, layered with ricotta and a rich meat sauce. The aroma filled the kitchen, a familiar comfort. As she stirred the sauce, she imagined him needing space to navigate difficult emotions.

He came in later than usual, looking tired. She didn't mention the phone. “Dinner’s ready,” she announced, her voice even. He seemed surprised. She squeezed his hand as she set a plate in front of him. "Eat up, you need it," she murmured.