Gemotions

The apology, delivered by a messenger, was a heavy thing. Liam had not expected it. The thick, creamy paper crackled as he unfolded it, a sound that grated on his already frayed nerves. He felt a sudden, inexplicable tightening in his throat.

He leaned against the doorway, letting the afternoon sun warm his face. The letter spoke of old grievances, of misunderstandings, of pain inflicted and suffered. He felt his hands clench into fists. He wanted to throw something, break something.

He didn't. Instead, he dropped the letter. The words seemed to float around him. The air seemed to buzz. He turned to the kitchen and grabbed a beer. The first swig was ice cold and didn't help.