Gemotions

The old photographs, brittle with age, lay scattered on the table. It had been years since he'd looked at them. Michael's childhood friend, Peter, had reached out, wanting to plan a reunion and reminisce. They'd been inseparable as kids. Michael’s memories felt tainted.

Peter described their adventures, the pranks they had pulled, the games they had played. He remembered the wild times, the uncomplicated friendship. Michael recalled the jealousy, the competition, the feeling of being constantly outshone. He remembered feeling the sting of being constantly second best.

Now, listening to Peter’s version, Michael felt a profound sense of loss, a sense of opportunity wasted. He had never been able to be happy for Peter's success. He had only been able to feel inadequate. He should have been a better friend. The photographs, once filled with joy, now seemed to mock his own shortcomings.