Gemotions

The fire crackled merrily in the hearth, casting a warm glow over the room. David sank deeper into the plush sofa, a book resting open in his hands. The weight of his worries seemed to dissipate. He ran a hand through his hair, the sensation soothing.

A commotion from the dining room interrupted his tranquility. It sounded like hushed whispers and a few dropped utensils. He was intrigued by the sudden change in atmosphere.

His partner, Mark, walked in, face flushed. He said, with a slightly awkward expression, “David, I made… ‘ravioli al pesto’?” He looked expectant.

David set down his book and stared. "Mark... Italian? You've been learning Italian?"