Gemotions

A warm bath, fragrant with lavender, was James’s usual antidote to a long day. He sank into the water, letting the heat melt away the tension in his shoulders. He closed his eyes, listening to the soft splashing and the distant hum of the dishwasher. He felt like he could stay there forever.

He would usually check the mail, after his bath. He didn't want to, but it was a chore. While sorting through the pile, a letter caught his attention. It was from a bank he didn’t recognize, addressed to his wife, Eleanor. He was not one for opening his spouse's mail. But this envelope had her name printed with a familiar boldness.

He found himself sitting on their bed, feeling quite still. Inside the letter was a statement. He hadn't known Eleanor had another account. He read the numbers over and over, feeling a sort of quiet, heavy stillness. He had a sudden urge to make some tea.