Gemotions

The clock on the microwave ticked, each second amplifying the quiet. Outside, a storm raged, mirroring the turmoil brewing within Maria. David hadn't even texted to say he was going to be late. The house echoed with a vast emptiness she couldn’t quite name.

Then, the phone. It vibrated on the counter. She saw him pick it up, his back to her as if to block her view, quickly leaving the room to speak on the balcony. She could barely hear the muffled conversation. It lasted a long time.

Maria felt her breath hitch in her chest, the air turning heavy and difficult to draw. She moved to the window, watching the rain blur the streetlights.