Gemotions

The coffee cup trembled in Marco’s hand, sloshing lukewarm liquid over the rim. He stared at the woman beside him, her face a mask of similar shock. The specialist had just delivered the news: a genetic anomaly, virtually unheard of. And she, it seemed, shared it.

He felt the blood drain from his face, leaving him feeling hollow. He leaned forward, trying to gather his thoughts, but his mind felt scrambled. “What… how long have you known?” he asked, the words catching in his throat.

She shook her head, unable to speak, and pointed to her own chart. He could only surmise she had been given the news only recently as well. He felt a surge of adrenaline, wanting to know everything, but he didn't know where to start.