Gemotions

The steam from the coffee mug clouded Elena’s vision as she watched Mateo. He was attempting to pronounce the complex sounds of her Spanish, mangling the words in a way that would normally make her laugh. Today, though, a strange heat was prickling behind her eyes. He’d surprised her with a breakfast of *arepas*, something her abuela used to make.

He looked up, a hopeful expression on his face. “¿Cómo está?” he asked. It was his attempt at a greeting, and she knew he'd been working hard. He had been so… intent on learning it.

A wave of something like confusion washed over her. She knew he loved her, that he was trying. But there was a possessiveness in his gaze, a possessiveness she wasn't sure she liked. She focused on the steam. The familiar scent of coffee felt grounding. “It’s… good,” she replied, her voice flat. She took a slow sip. The silence seemed to grow between them.