Gemotions

“Dad, you’ve got mail!” twelve-year-old Leo shouted from the hallway. David, immersed in a book, reluctantly looked up. The email was from his ex-wife. She'd left him for his best friend twenty years ago. He felt a jolt of something he couldn't quite name.

He read the message, his jaw clenching. He felt a flush creep up his neck. The years melted away, and he was back in that moment, the sting of the betrayal sharp and fresh. He rubbed his eyes.

He stood up, walking from the living room to the kitchen and back. He opened the fridge and then closed it. He began to feel a sense of irritation. He had built his life. The letter was an intrusion. He had a responsibility to his son.