Gemotions

Rain hammered against the windowpane, mirroring the drumming in Daniel’s chest. The dog, Buster, whimpered softly at his feet, sensing his unease. He’d found the manuscript tucked away in a drawer—a novel by Emily, his Emily. The protagonist, a man named Leo, was undeniably him. The descriptions of his work habits, his penchant for wearing mismatched socks, even his annoying habit of humming under his breath… all there. A knot formed in his stomach.

He felt a pull to the sofa, slowly sinking into the cushions. He pulled his legs in toward his chest. His hands fidgeted, picking at the loose threads on the worn upholstery. The plot, he realized with a sinking feeling, was a thinly veiled version of their own relationship's struggles. The insecurities, the unspoken resentments… all brought to life through her words.

He looked around the apartment, at the collected items that defined him and Emily's life together, realizing a wave of affection. He picked up the first page again, and slowly began to smile.