Gemotions

David found the flashcards tucked away in a drawer—Spanish vocabulary, neatly organized. He felt a deep ache in his chest. His partner, Mateo, had always been so proud of his heritage, the language, the culture. David, engrossed in his own world, hadn't made an effort to connect with that part of Mateo’s life.

A knot formed in his stomach. He pictured Mateo, diligently practicing, wanting to share something important with him. The realization of his oversight hit him hard.

He heard the front door open, and Mateo’s footsteps in the hallway. David quickly put the flashcards back in the drawer. When Mateo walked into the bedroom, David smiled, a genuine, warm smile.

"Hey, mi amor," David said, reaching out to take Mateo’s hand.