Gemotions

The relentless tick of the clock on the kitchen wall seemed to mock him. He was supposed to be relaxing, but the grocery list and the looming car repair bill occupied his thoughts. He caught a glimpse of his neighbor, Ms. Dubois, effortlessly unloading groceries from a chauffeured car. Another luxury he could only dream of.

He had always thought Ms. Dubois was just a successful businesswoman, but the online documents, accidentally left open on her laptop during the charity event he helped at, told a different story. A story of offshore accounts and properties scattered across the globe. He rubbed his eyes, feeling the familiar weight in his chest. A feeling he couldn't quite name.