Gemotions

The attic air hung thick and stale, clinging to Leo’s throat. He coughed, the sound echoing in the confined space. He should be at the gym, he thought. Or even just outside. But the task of clearing out his grandfather's belongings was a burden.

He'd found a letter tucked away in a leather-bound journal. It was from his grandfather to his commanding officer. It spoke of his need to leave, to “find peace.” It mentioned the war, but it didn't give any specifics.

Leo felt a sudden, sharp pain in his chest. His grandfather rarely spoke about his time in the military. Leo had always believed the old man to be stoic. He felt exposed, stripped bare.