Gemotions

The park bench felt cool against Ben’s back as he stared at the letter. A half-sister. He had always been alone, and he had always liked it that way. The news stirred nothing within him.

He was surrounded by life. Dogs barked, children laughed, and couples strolled hand-in-hand, but Ben just watched, detached. He found himself studying a small, perfectly formed leaf that had fallen to the ground. It was still green, still vibrant.

The sun warmed his face, and he closed his eyes, inhaling the scent of freshly cut grass. He remained there, the breeze a gentle caress. The notion of a sudden family member seemed like a far off storm, one that had little to do with him.