Gemotions

The bank statement lay on the kitchen counter, a stark white rectangle amidst the morning clutter. Sarah stared at it. Her heart thumped a strange rhythm against her ribs. She’d been looking for a misplaced tax form. This wasn't it. But her name was on it, and so was Mark’s. The account balance… it was considerable. A significant sum, tucked away, seemingly unbeknownst to her.

She picked up the coffee mug, her fingers tracing the ceramic. Suddenly, the warmth felt distant, almost a betrayal. He’d always been so open, so transparent about their finances. Where had this come from? The savings account was established five years ago. Coincidentally, the same year he'd taken a sudden interest in online poker.

Sarah sank into a chair. The silence of the kitchen amplified the sudden, frantic beat in her chest.