Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mirroring the rhythm of Leo's drumming heart. He sat on the worn couch, clutching a worn photo album. Across the room, Sarah, his partner, was humming quietly, meticulously arranging flowers in a vase. He watched her, a lump forming in his throat.

She had started learning Japanese, a language he thought she had no interest in. As she worked, she murmured a greeting, her accent slightly awkward but endearing. It was the same greeting his grandfather used to give him when he was a boy.

The world seemed to sharpen into focus. He stood, and his legs felt unsteady. He walked over to her, his throat constricting. He didn't say anything, just gently took her hand, and held it.