Gemotions

The harsh fluorescent lights of the airport illuminated the weary lines on Michael’s face. His son's college graduation ceremony was this afternoon. He had worked tirelessly to provide opportunities, and now, he wasn’t able to witness his son's triumph.

He drummed his fingers on his knee, the rhythmic tapping a frantic counterpoint to the turmoil inside him. Every second felt like a blow. He checked the status, again and again. Still delayed.

He closed his eyes, replaying conversations with his son, the proud moments that had led to this milestone. The feeling that he had let him down settled on his shoulders, heavy and suffocating.