Gemotions

The email arrived at precisely 9:00 AM, and as soon as it appeared, Harold knew. He’d ordered the DNA kit more as a lark, a way to pass the time during a particularly dreary Tuesday. But now, as he read the words, a strange, warm feeling spread through him. He sat up straighter, a small, involuntary smile curving his lips.

The results pointed towards a long line of accomplished scientists. He thought of his parents' incessant encouragement to go into business. They'd always said he had "a gift for sales." He felt a thrilling sense of vindication. He always knew he was above that.

He started compiling a list of all the things he would now tell his parents, all the ways he would explain his newfound understanding. He was no longer bound by their expectations. He was free. He almost wanted to start yelling with excitement.