Gemotions

The laptop hummed, its screen reflecting the dim lamplight in Amelia's wide, staring eyes. A document, titled “The Perfect Wife,” was open. She’d been looking for a recipe, honestly, a simple chocolate chip cookie that didn't require a trip to the specialty grocery. But the cursor had somehow clicked on the wrong file. The words, initially blurry, sharpened into stark reality. Her name. Her quirks. Her morning coffee ritual, painstakingly described. A wave of dizziness washed over her.

She closed the laptop, the sudden blackness a small comfort. Her chest felt tight, constricted. How long? When had this started? She walked to the kitchen, a sense of disconnect clinging to her like a shroud. The aroma of simmering tomato sauce, usually so comforting, now seemed intrusive. She poured herself a glass of water, her hand trembling slightly as she brought it to her lips.

A knock. Liam. He stood in the doorway, a manuscript clutched in his hand. “Hey, I’m almost finished editing this,” he said, his smile bright. She could only manage a weak, “Oh?” The water felt like ice in her stomach.