Gemotions

The discovery was a cold wave. Michael, usually an avid reader of the news, couldn’t focus. The crumpled bank statement sat on the kitchen table, a betrayal that cast a pall over the morning light. His wife, Emily, had always been so transparent, sharing everything. This secret account was a punch to the gut.

He absentmindedly stirred his coffee, watching the brown liquid swirl. The silence in the house, usually a comfort, now felt oppressive. He stared out the window, at the bright green lawn, the cheerful chirping of birds. He felt a deep ache in his chest, a feeling of being wrong-footed.

Later that day, he found himself walking the dog in the park. He usually enjoyed this ritual, but today, everything was tainted. Even the familiar scent of the trees felt wrong. He kicked a pebble, his mind churning, replaying every shared moment.