Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mimicking the agitated rhythm in Amelia's chest. She’d come home to a silent apartment, the usual cheerful clutter oddly absent. Liam had claimed he was working late, but the half-eaten pasta in the sink and the lingering scent of his cologne – a different brand than usual – made a mockery of his explanation. That was the first prickle of unease.

The second came when she picked up her phone to call him. A faint click, almost imperceptible, echoed from the other room, followed by the muffled rush of a voice. She moved to the edge of the doorway. The speaker was hidden behind the closed bedroom door, and the light from the hallway barely illuminated his silhouette. All she could hear were hushed tones and a low laugh that wasn’t meant for her. Her stomach felt hollow.

She retreated, her hands curling into fists. She didn't want to confront him. Not yet. She sat on the couch, pulling the throw blanket tighter around her. The silence of the apartment seemed to press down on her, the weight of the unanswered questions settling heavily on her.