Gemotions

The letter arrived in a crisp, white envelope. Inside was a birth certificate, a faded photograph, and a simple note: “Hello, brother.” Alex’s breath caught in his throat. He felt a wave of nausea, a sudden weakness in his knees.

He crumpled the letter, then immediately smoothed it out again. He felt a desperate need to erase the evidence, to pretend it hadn’t happened. He ran his hand through his hair. He wanted to scream.

He poured himself a glass of whiskey, though it was early in the day. He couldn't look at the photograph. He locked it away, deep in a drawer. He didn't want to talk to anyone. He wouldn't pick up the phone.