Gemotions

The dusty envelope felt heavy in her hand. Inside, a statement from a credit union, detailing an account in her wife, Carol's, name. The balance stunned her. They'd been scrimping and saving, and she'd been worrying about their retirement. A wave of relief washed over her, a feeling like the sun breaking through clouds.

She found Carol in the kitchen, humming as she cooked. "Hey," she said, her voice brighter than she intended. "Dinner smells amazing."

They ate quietly, the comfort of the food settling deep within her. Later, she reached for Carol's hand, holding it firmly. “I love you,” she whispered.