Gemotions

"Perfect," Clara murmured, sinking deeper into the oversized armchair. The crackling fire in the fireplace cast dancing shadows on the walls, and a glass of Merlot sat comfortably in her hand. The soft purr of the cat curled up in her lap was the perfect accompaniment to the book she had started. Complete, utter, blissful comfort.

She heard David come in, slamming the door. The sound was too loud. It seemed incongruous. David greeted her quietly before quickly disappearing upstairs. A few moments later, his phone rang upstairs. She heard him answer it, his voice low and secretive, muffled by the closed door. The cheerful mood she'd been in began to wilt like a neglected flower. She felt a vague and unfamiliar pressure in her chest.