Gemotions

Her stomach clenched. Chloe stared at the photo on the coffee table. James, beaming, accepting an award at a gala. She’d always marveled at his success, at the effortless way he commanded attention. Now, after seeing him deliver pizzas in a faded uniform, the photograph felt like a cruel joke.

The image felt heavy on her chest. Chloe had taken a step back from her dream job to support their life together. The promise of his career had allowed her to. Her hours at the bookstore were barely enough to cover the basics, and his "corporate role" had made her future feel safe. Now, she knew that future was fragile.

She bit her lip, the taste of blood in her mouth. She had to ask the questions, but she didn’t know if she could face the answers.