Gemotions

The bustling city streets always invigorated Anya, the energy of the crowd, the constant motion. Today, however, the noise was oppressive, each sound a harsh reminder of something lost.

She returned to their apartment, expecting nothing. Found everything. Her partner, Thomas, in the kitchen. A half-eaten plate of pasta on the counter. And words. Words she knew. Words he had learned. She watched as Thomas spoke his halting sentences in her language. He was trying to be romantic. He was failing.

He noticed her, his smile faltering. He offered the pasta. She shook her head. He had been so busy in secret, learning this language. She went to the living room, shut the door, and sank into the sofa.