Gemotions

Rain hammered against the windowpane, mirroring the relentless drumming in Ethan's head. He found the book tucked away in a drawer, the cover bearing a picture that looked eerily like him and his partner, Liam, holding hands on their anniversary trip. Every page was a brutal, honest portrayal of their relationship, their arguments, their silent resentments, the slow erosion of their love. He had been so blind.

He ran a hand through his hair, the strands catching on his fingers as if trying to restrain him. The knot in his stomach tightened.

Liam came home early, noticing the state of the living room, the scattered pillows, the untouched dinner. He saw the book, the open page, and his face crumbled. He spoke, a whisper barely audible above the storm, "I... I can explain."

Ethan flinched. The look on Liam’s face, the way his shoulders slumped, the broken silence, it was more than he could bear. He turned away, unable to meet his gaze.