Gemotions

The afternoon sun beat down on Leo, the heat oppressive even indoors. He trudged inside, feeling the grit of the day settle in his bones. He longed only for the cool embrace of his bed. His partner, Finn, was humming in the living room.

He walked into the room, and Finn turned, a notebook in his hand. “Ciao, amore,” he chirped, offering a goofy grin.

Leo just stared, his mouth ajar. Italian. He felt a slow, heavy feeling spreading through his limbs, as if they were filled with lead. He could manage no more than a wordless sound of surprise.