Gemotions

The thin, blue envelope felt cold against Arthur’s fingers. He’d never thought he’d hear from his older brother, John, again. Their last conversation had ended with bitter words and slammed doors. Arthur felt a sudden pressure behind his eyes. He slowly opened the letter, his brow furrowed.

John's apology was filled with self-pity, blaming circumstances for his failings. He claimed to have changed, to be a better person now. Arthur’s chest felt constricted, as if someone had placed a heavy weight on it. He found himself scanning the room, as if trying to find an escape route.

He reread a particular line that spoke of a financial settlement. A slow burn rose in his cheeks. He tossed the letter onto the table, his hand clenching into a fist. He abruptly stood and began to pace.