Gemotions

“Another one?” I said, the words bitter on my tongue. The scent of her perfume, normally comforting, now felt acrid, like a poison. I watched her, her back to me, cradling the phone. I hadn’t seen her so animated in weeks.

I slammed my fist on the countertop. The sound echoed in the otherwise silent apartment. The plates and glasses rattled.

She turned, startled, and the look on her face was a puzzle I couldn't solve. It was a combination of fear and something I didn't recognize.

"What's going on, Jessica?" I demanded, my voice raspy. My throat felt constricted.

She just shook her head and quickly walked away. I wanted to reach out, grab her arm, and shake the truth out of her.