Gemotions

The weight of the fishing rod felt heavier than usual in David’s hands. He stood on the pier, the salty air doing little to soothe his frayed nerves. His son, Sam, had surpassed him long ago. He remembered the shared laughter, the quiet camaraderie of early mornings. Now, Sam was a professional, a name in the angling world.

David cast his line, a practiced motion that now felt hollow. The sun glinted off the water, but he couldn't see the beauty of it. Sam had his own boat, his own gear, his own circle. David used to build custom fishing rods but now they sat in the garage collecting dust.

He felt the familiar tug of a fish, but it didn't bring any joy. It was just a reminder of the chasm that had opened between them, an ocean of unsaid things. He felt adrift, a cast-off line.