Gemotions

The old journal lay open on the kitchen table. Liam, a man approaching retirement, had been revisiting his youth, reliving memories. Then, he found the letter tucked inside. It was a letter to his best friend, who died many years ago.

The letter was full of youthful bravado, and hidden within the brash words was the truth: he'd been jealous of his friend's accomplishments. He’d craved his friend's easy charm and success. He’d never admitted it, not even to himself.

Liam looked at the words and realized how selfish he had been. He set the letter down, and the silence of the room was filled with the echoes of regret.