Gemotions

The musty scent of old paper filled the cramped space. Daniel, crouched on the floor, flipped through a dog-eared folder. Inside were his childhood poems, filled with the angst and awkwardness of adolescence. Each word triggered a cringing memory. It was too much. He felt choked by the weight of it all.

He slammed the folder shut, the action sharp and sudden. He imagined his mother's face, her pride in his accomplishments, her unwavering belief in his potential. It felt like a weight, a burden he could never shake.

He packed it back into the box, his hands shaking, and left the room, his shoulders slumped. The thought of confronting her about it felt impossible.