Gemotions

The chipped paint on the kitchen cabinets seemed to mock Leo. Each morning, each evening, it was the same view, the same stale air. He felt mired. He had worked the same job for so long, and his relationship with his partner, David, had slowly morphed into a comfortable routine. One evening he found David on the couch, laughing at a film he had downloaded.

“Ciao, caro!” he said, waving with a smile. It was Italian. His voice was bright, the words tumbling out with an ease that shocked Leo. He felt a jolt, like static electricity. He couldn’t reply, his throat completely closed off. A wave of unease washed over him. The floor seemed to tilt beneath his feet.