Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, usually a comfort, now felt like an insult. Sam sat at the kitchen table, the manuscript open before her. Her partner, Chris, had written a novel about their relationship, an intensely personal and, frankly, unflattering portrayal of her.

A wave of nausea washed over her. She pushed the book away, unable to look at it any longer. She felt the sudden urge to run, to escape.

Chris entered the room, his face pale. He saw the book. He spoke, his voice barely a whisper, but she couldn't understand the words. She turned away from him, her heart heavy, her steps already moving her out the door.