Gemotions

A cold sweat slicked down Mark’s back as he read the letter. His mother, after a lifetime of avoiding the subject, had finally confessed. He had a sister. A sister he’d never known existed. The knowledge landed in his gut like a lead weight. He felt his pulse quicken, a frantic drum against his ribs.

He slammed the letter onto the kitchen counter, the paper slapping loudly in the otherwise silent room. His hands clenched into fists. He looked at the family photos on the fridge, the images mocking his ignorance. Every happy memory seemed tainted by this revelation.

He ran a hand through his hair, tugging at the strands. The phone sat on the counter, a constant invitation, a threat. Should he call? Would he be ready to face this person he didn't know? He needed air. He grabbed his coat and fled the house, heading towards the park. The crisp autumn air did little to calm the racing thoughts in his head.