Gemotions

The late afternoon sun painted the sky in vibrant hues as Daniel sat at his desk, staring out the window. Mr. Garcia, his Spanish teacher, had just reacted to a story he posted. It was a picture of a street scene in Barcelona, a city he had visited with his family many years ago.

He remembered the feel of the cobblestone streets, the taste of the churros, the lively sounds of the language. He felt a deep tenderness, a gentle ache for the past. Mr. Garcia always spoke of his love for Spain. He seemed almost a part of it.

He closed his eyes, inhaling deeply, and imagined the scent of the sea. He felt a need to share the story with someone, as if by sharing it, he might somehow relive it. He opened a messaging app. He thought of his abuela.