Gemotions

The scratchy sound of a child’s workbook filled the otherwise silent apartment. Anya knew better than to interrupt. Her boyfriend, Ben, had disappeared into his study, a small room usually reserved for his endless video games. Now, the soft sounds of a child's story, read in a language she recognized as her own, echoed from behind the closed door.

She sat, folded legs on the sofa, a half-finished book resting on her lap. The rhythm was off, the inflection clumsy, but the effort was undeniable. She could picture him, brow furrowed, lips moving slowly as he deciphered each unfamiliar word.

A sudden giggle escaped from him, followed by a frustrated groan. Anya chuckled softly, a warm feeling spreading through her chest. She continued reading, knowing it would be a while.