Gemotions

The envelope felt wrong, too flimsy, like a cheap imitation of something important. Inside, a letter from a lawyer, detailing the existence of a half-brother named Kevin. Michael tossed it on the kitchen table, the crisp white paper looking suddenly soiled.

He found himself avoiding the kitchen. The air there seemed thick with the phantom presence of this unknown relative. The mere idea of their blood, flowing in the same paths, felt like a physical affront.

He could barely eat. The food tasted…wrong. He pushed his plate away, the thought of consuming something that sustained a connection to this…this interloper, turning his stomach. He left the dishes dirty and just went to his room.