Gemotions

The ornate details of the antique desk in the study seemed to mock Ethan’s state. He sat there, staring at the numbers on the screen. A substantial sum, accruing interest, while he, the husband, had diligently managed their shared finances. The feeling of being left out, excluded, settled in his chest like a lead weight.

He rose from the chair. His gaze fell upon the framed photograph of their wedding day, his smile now a grimace. He felt an urge to throw it against the wall, to shatter the facade of a perfect life. Instead, he simply turned away, unable to bear the sight. He walked into the cool air of the yard, the wind whispering through the trees.