Gemotions

He saw the account balance and felt a knot tighten in his stomach. The figure, a hefty sum, stood in stark contrast to their shared financial struggles. He replayed their conversations, her constant worries about affording their life, his reassurances, and his own lies. A bitter taste coated his mouth.

He walked over to the window, the city sprawling before him, beautiful, yet indifferent. How could he have kept this from her? From them? The guilt pressed down on him, a palpable weight.

He heard the click of the lock, and the door opened. "I'm back, honey!" she called out, her voice filled with an energy he no longer felt. He turned to face her, feeling the color drain from his face. He felt exposed, stripped bare.