Gemotions

A tremor ran through David as he scrolled through the hidden profile. It was his son, Ethan. The pictures told a story he hadn't known. Ethan, normally reserved, laughing with a group of friends, some of whom David had never met. The tight knot in his chest loosened slightly as he observed the joyous displays.

His fingers tightened around the phone. He remembered Ethan’s first baseball game, the excitement on his young face. It felt like just yesterday. Now, this… this vibrant life, hidden away.

He set the phone down, the screen reflecting his own aging face. He went to the garage and started fiddling with a dusty old toolbox, the familiar scent of oil and metal a comfort. He knew he should confront Ethan, but a reluctance, a deep-seated feeling, made him hesitate. He felt a pang of longing for simpler times.