Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the kitchen. Liam hummed a cheerful tune as he sliced a warm loaf, the crust cracking pleasantly under the knife. Sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. He arranged the bread on a platter, alongside a selection of artisanal cheeses he knew Sarah loved. Their anniversary was tomorrow, and everything felt…perfect. He heard the faint click of the front door, Sarah was home.

"Honey, I'm home!" Liam called, his voice bright. She appeared, her face a little flushed, but smiling. He went to kiss her, but then the phone rang. Sarah’s eyes flickered, an almost imperceptible hesitation. "I'll get it," she said quickly, already reaching for the receiver. Liam just smiled. He poured her a glass of wine, savoring the anticipation of the evening to come.