Gemotions

The gentle strumming of the ukulele, usually a source of joy, now felt like a pointed melody. Across the lanai, Leo was singing a Hawaiian song, his pronunciation surprisingly perfect. She’d made a joke of his attempts to learn, never taking it seriously.

She ran a hand through her hair, a nervous gesture. She could have supported him, could have joined in. She’d been too focused on her own ambitions, her own world. Now, the vibrant colors of the island seemed muted, the scent of plumeria, cloying.

She got up and walked to the edge of the lanai, staring out at the ocean. The waves crashed with a relentless rhythm, each one a reminder of her failings.