Gemotions

The phone rang, and Mark answered, his hand already reaching for the receiver. It was his sister, Sarah, her voice high-pitched and strained. “Dad wants to sell the pocket watch, Mark. The one Grandpa gave him.” Mark glanced at the worn leather armchair in the living room, where his father often sat, listening to the crackle of the radio.

He replied to his sister in a gentle tone. "I understand, Sarah. He’s got to do what's best for him." He could picture the watch, gold and heavy in his hand, the intricate details of the engraved initials.

He stood in the doorway and saw his father, a small smile playing on his lips, examining a newspaper clipping. “I’m on my way over, Dad. Let’s talk about it,” Mark said, trying to keep his voice steady. He knew it wouldn't be easy.

His father looked up, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Come on in, son. I need a hand with this crossword."