Gemotions

The clatter of dishes in the kitchen masked the sound, but then silence descended. James saw the light on in the study and knew. His wife, Elizabeth, never worked late. He approached the closed door, each step weighted. His stomach was a knot.

He paused, then pushed it open. Elizabeth spun around, startled, phone in hand. She immediately snapped it shut. Her face was pale.

“Just… work,” she stammered, avoiding his eyes.

James felt a disconnect, as if he were observing a play and didn't know the script. The room seemed to shrink, the walls closing in. He felt the blood drain from his face.