Gemotions

The crispness of the letter’s paper felt like an insult against Thomas’s calloused fingers. His father, the man who had always preached the importance of loyalty, of "being a team player," had penned these words. Words of bitter disappointment.

He paced the length of his grandmother's musty room, the draft letter fluttering in his hand like a trapped bird. "…denied opportunity…disregarded contributions…" The blatant injustice stung. His father had always shielded the children. Always portrayed a version of his work life that was sanitized, smooth, and full of triumph.

He felt a burning heat climb his neck. It was a betrayal, not just of the company, but of the values his father had instilled in him. He flung the letter onto the bed and turned away, his breath hitching.