Gemotions

The musty scent of old paper filled his nostrils. He reread the letter, the words a burning brand against his skin. His older sister had found it first. Resignation. From a job that defined their father. The one he’d claimed to adore. The realization made him feel like he was being strangled.

He paced his small apartment, the space feeling too tight. He wished he could smash the lamp on his desk. He opened a window, the city noises seeming to mock him. The city lights began to twinkle. How had they all missed this? He knew this was the end of the fairytale he’d believed in.