Gemotions

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the living room as Maya settled onto the couch, a cup of chamomile tea warming her hands. A book lay open on her lap, but she hadn’t turned the page in minutes, simply gazing out the window at the swaying trees. A light breeze rustled the leaves, creating a gentle, rhythmic sound that she found quite agreeable.

Suddenly, a voice startled her. “¿Cómo estás, mi amor?” It was Liam, standing in the doorway, a shy smile gracing his features. He’d been working on his Spanish, she knew, but never had he addressed her in it.

A warmth flooded her chest, spreading through her limbs like a soothing balm. She grinned. “Muy bien, mi corazón. And you?” His awkward pronunciation was adorable.