Gemotions

From the corner of his eye, Daniel watched his father, who was attempting a joke that fell flat. He knew the joke was less important than the effort. The man who had been a rock for him his whole life was now standing a little unsteady.

The crisp linen of his father’s shirt seemed to emphasize the softness of his aging skin. He knew that the man had never been one for grand gestures, but he'd spent his whole life providing. Daniel found himself clenching his fists.

"Dad," he said, clearing his throat, "you’ve always been someone I looked up to." The words felt inadequate, but the sentiment was real. He could see in his father’s eyes that he understood.