Gemotions

The hum of the refrigerator was the only constant companion. Michael sat in his living room, surrounded by unpacked boxes from his move. He'd been hoping to find something to spark joy in the new place, and he found something else entirely.

He located the letter. Addressed to his estranged brother, a confession of guilt and longing that he never had the courage to send. He remembered the day he'd written it.

The words, so carefully chosen, now seemed inadequate. The weight of his silence settled on him like a physical burden. He ran a hand through his hair, a nervous gesture. He’d come to terms with the solitude, he’d told himself. He wasn’t sure he believed it.