Gemotions

Michael felt a knot tighten in his stomach as he stared at the bank statement. Sarah, his wife, had a separate account. He’d stumbled upon it while looking for a receipt for the gas bill. The amount was substantial. He took a seat at the kitchen table, the chair suddenly feeling too small.

He ran his fingers through his hair, a nervous habit he’d developed over the years. The numbers blurred. The implications slammed into him, each one a fresh wave of dread. Was he not enough? Was she planning something?

He found himself pacing the room, his footsteps heavy and out of sync with each other. The air felt thick, difficult to navigate. He imagined her face, a mask of composure he'd failed to penetrate for years. What secrets were she hiding? His heart hammered against his ribs.

He picked up the phone, wanting to call her, but found himself hesitating. He didn't want to tip his hand, expose his vulnerability. He needed answers, but the truth, he realised, might be a burden he couldn't bear.