Gemotions

The paper crackled under Chloe's fingers. "Learn to play the guitar." "Volunteer abroad." "Fall in love." The last item. *Fall in love*. With *who*? Her pulse hammered against her ribs. She swallowed hard, trying to dislodge the lump forming in her throat. This was from Mark, her quiet, dependable Mark. She felt a cold dread creeping into her bones.

Her hands shook as she scrolled through his phone, a frantic hunt for evidence, a desperate attempt to understand. Each contact, each message, seemed to be mocking her. The silence in the apartment intensified, pressing down on her.

She heard the key turn in the lock. Her breath hitched. She quickly stuffed the list back into the drawer and plastered a smile on her face.