Gemotions

The envelope was plain, unmarked, and tucked inside a box of old photographs. Liam ran his finger along the faded ink. It was addressed to the principal of his mother’s high school. The letter outlined her intentions to withdraw from the prestigious private school due to financial constraints. He’d never known his mother’s time at the school, she'd never spoken of it, and so he knew nothing of her life.

Liam, now a successful architect, understood the weight of her sacrifice. He’d known they hadn't always had money. He recalled the countless hours his mother worked. He felt a swell of something that made him want to stand at attention. He knew this was why he was where he was.

He read the letter again, slowly. He felt a newfound respect for his mother’s quiet strength. He’d frame it. He’d take it to his mother’s house and give it to her without a word, and watch her face.