Gemotions

The old house creaked around Thomas as he carefully unfolded the letter. He’d been tasked with cleaning out his late grandfather’s office. The draft of a resignation letter from his grandfather’s position as a judge. It had always been a source of family pride, his grandfather’s esteemed position.

The letter was dated shortly after his grandfather's controversial decision in a high-profile case. Thomas knew his grandfather had been unfairly criticized. The details, however, were shocking, explaining the political pressure, the threats, and the ultimate threat against his family. Thomas felt his face flush with shame. He'd always dismissed the rumors, defended his grandfather's honor.

Now, he knew he had failed to truly understand. He felt a burning in his gut, a twisting sensation. He couldn't meet his own eyes in the dusty mirror.