Gemotions

"A… a librarian?" Eleanor repeated, her voice thin. Across the table, James looked sheepish, hands folded in his lap. He'd always spoken of complex projects and demanding deadlines. Now she learned he spent his days surrounded by books and quiet. The contrast between her perception and reality was stark.

The blood drained from her face. She felt a wave of dizziness. She felt like someone had punched her in the gut. The restaurant's cheerful chatter faded into a dull hum. She wanted to scream, to lash out, but the words were trapped in her throat. She gripped the tablecloth with a force that made her knuckles ache.