Gemotions

The phone call had come on a Tuesday. "There's something you need to know about your father." The lawyer’s voice was as bland as the beige office walls. Now, weeks later, the woman stood before him, a mirror of his father’s eyes. He found himself almost unable to look.

He’d always felt a certain pride in his lineage, his family’s impeccable reputation. This…this other woman tarnished that. He didn't say hello, didn't offer a chair. His arms were folded so tightly across his chest they ached.

She was nervous, he could see it. She spoke quietly, awkwardly. He barely registered her words. All he could feel was a prickling sensation behind his eyes.

He barely managed a curt nod before dismissing her. He watched her retreat and felt a rush of something akin to triumph.