Gemotions

The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the living room, a golden reminder of how much time had passed. Leo sprawled on the rug, the open book resting uselessly on his chest. Reading felt like work, these days. He’d promised to help Maya with the garden, but the thought of digging, of being outside… he was tired.

He heard Maya in the garden, humming softly. Then, a clear, melodic voice, speaking in German. He sat up, startled. He could recognize a few words, and her accent was spot-on.

He pushed himself up and walked slowly toward the back door. The sun was hot on his face, a physical burden. He stopped at the doorway. Maya, oblivious to his presence, continued her monologue. The language, and the effortless way she spoke it, was something else.