Gemotions

"You seem… agitated," David's wife, Emily, observed, her voice gentle. He flinched, the abruptness of her comment a shock. He hadn't realized he was fidgeting so much, drumming his fingers against the kitchen table. The television blared, but he couldn't process the images.

He mumbled something about a long day, but the lie tasted sour on his tongue. He knew Emily saw through him. The promotion at work was everything. He had dedicated so much time, so many late nights. He’d sacrificed everything for it.

He pushed his plate away, suddenly finding he had no appetite. He felt a deep-seated pressure in his chest, a tightness that made it difficult to breathe. He needed air, space. He got up and walked to the kitchen window and opened it. He closed his eyes.