Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, usually a comfort, now felt like a taunt. He had been unusually cheerful, whistling as he poured himself a cup. Then, the phone call. A hurried greeting, a quick exit to the backyard.

She watched him from the kitchen window, his back to her, his posture rigid. The wind rustled the leaves, a sound that amplified the silence inside her.

She felt a strange disconnect, as if the world was suddenly out of focus. She touched her chest; the frantic beating of her heart was the only reality. She felt exposed, vulnerable, like a creature caught in a spotlight.