Gemotions

He stared at the photograph, a beaming picture of the two of them on their anniversary. A smile stretched across his face, genuine and wide. He had just finished the last chapter of his book; it was accepted by the publisher. He paced around the kitchen, anticipation making his limbs hum. The phone in the other room suddenly started ringing.

He went to answer it, but his partner, Ben, beat him to it. He heard Ben speaking in soft tones, words he couldn't quite decipher. A wave of contentment washed over him. The book, the life they shared. What more could a person want?

Ben returned, looking a little pale. He forced a smile. "Just the office," he muttered. "Good news?" the man asked, unable to contain his giddy delight. He was eager to share everything with Ben. Today was a triumph.