Gemotions

The photograph, tucked inside the envelope, was what truly cut her. It was a picture of her mother, young and vibrant, a smile lighting up her face. And then there was the letter, the admission of a terrible mistake, years of silence finally broken. It was a weight she hadn't known she was carrying.

Margaret stood in the center of her living room, the letter clutched in her hand. The air felt thin, difficult to breathe. The photograph felt like a burning coal in her hand. The apology, so long in coming, offered no comfort, just a fresh wound.

She sank into the nearest chair, her eyes fixed on the image. Her whole body felt heavy.