Gemotions

He felt buoyant, like a balloon on a string. David, filled with a sense of well-being, was making coffee, ready for a day of painting. He found himself wandering in the old basement.

There, in a dusty box, were photographs of his aunt, the one who always spoke of a hard life.

One photograph revealed her on a ski slope, looking elegant in a winter outfit. She'd always talked about the hardships of living through the Depression.

He found another picture of his uncle in a race car, laughing with a group of friends. His uncle was the quietest, most restrained man he knew.

David couldn't stop smiling. He felt exhilarated, like he had just been given the best secret.