Gemotions

He found the little book tucked away in the back of the silverware drawer. Thomas stared at the neat handwriting, each entry detailing deposits and withdrawals he'd never seen. His stomach churned. He felt a wave of heat wash over him, a burning sensation behind his eyes. He’d always felt so financially vulnerable around Susan, a constant worry that she’d judge his modest earnings.

Now, he realized the roles were reversed. She'd been judging *him*. He pictured their anniversary trip they’d “splurged” on last year. A tiny piece of the balance that this account held. He felt a tightening in his throat, a desire to disappear. The kitchen felt suddenly smaller, the air thick with unspoken truths.