Gemotions

“Another one?” Claire’s partner, Leo, asked, his voice laced with concern. He knew the look on Claire’s face – the tight jaw, the narrowed eyes. The letter, tucked behind the kitchen clock, felt like a tiny, mocking presence. Twenty-two years had passed since the incident that had ripped her family apart, and it was her sister who was apologizing. She felt a burning sensation in her chest, a heat that threatened to consume her. She took a deep breath, fighting the urge to tear the letter to shreds. The need to respond was almost painful. She sat, still, staring at the clock.