Gemotions

The email had dropped into Leo’s inbox like a bomb. A simple message from a woman named Chloe, sharing a story of deception. The attached photos confirmed everything. The pictures showed "Sarah" with him, on dates he'd thought were special, places he’d believed were theirs alone. A feeling of internal bruising began to spread.

He reread the email, each word a fresh stab. His heart hammered against his ribs, a frantic drumbeat of disbelief and betrayal. He wanted to scream. He wanted to break something.

He shut down his laptop with a snap, the sound echoing in the silent apartment. He stood up, pacing the small living room. The walls seemed to be closing in. He felt trapped, suffocated by the knowledge that he’d been living a lie. The phone on the table rang, and he flinched at the sound. He didn't answer it.