Gemotions

The old photographs spilled across the kitchen table, their edges worn and brittle. Michael’s cousin, Liam, had declared his intention to convert to Judaism. Michael felt as though he was looking back at a different version of himself. He sifted through the pictures, each one a tiny time capsule.

He picked up a photo of Liam at ten, grinning widely, holding a fishing rod. He remembered their summers spent by the lake, the endless games of tag, the shared secrets whispered in the darkness of their treehouse. Now, Liam would observe the Sabbath, study the Torah, and wear a kippah.

A lump formed in his throat. He cleared his throat. He realized he was squeezing his hand into a fist. He looked up at his wife. "You know, he still has that same crooked smile."