Gemotions

“Is something wrong, love?” Mark's partner, Ben, asked, his brow furrowing slightly. Mark had stopped mid-sentence, the words catching in his throat. He’d just overheard Ben on the phone, speaking Spanish with someone. He hadn't known Ben even had the faintest interest in the language.

Mark's throat felt constricted. He offered a weak smile, attempting to appear relaxed. He wanted to know, but he couldn’t bring himself to ask. The thought of confronting Ben with the question filled him with a strange, twisting dread. He took a sip of his tea, the ceramic cold against his shaking hand.