Gemotions

The soft glow of the candles in the synagogue seemed to chase away the shadows, but not the ones inside Daniel. His cousin, Michael, was now Orthodox, with the long peyos, the traditional attire. He looked so sure.

Daniel felt a sudden urge to make a cutting remark about Michael’s new way of life. The words caught in his throat.

He excused himself early, muttering something about a headache. Later, he sat in his dimly lit apartment, surrounded by the usual clutter, and poured himself another drink, the ice clinking loudly in the silence.