Gemotions

The package arrived a few days after her birthday. Inside, nestled amongst tissue paper, was a framed photograph and a letter. The photograph was from her wedding. The letter, handwritten and signed by her former best friend, Sarah, offered a heartfelt apology for her role in the betrayal that ended their friendship, years ago.

She felt a hollowness in her stomach. She hadn't seen Sarah in decades. She placed the letter on the mantelpiece, its presence a stark intrusion in her carefully curated life. Her hands felt clammy. She slowly sat down on the sofa, her gaze fixed on the photograph, an image filled with memories and, now, regret. She found herself whispering a single word, "Why?"