Gemotions

David sat on the edge of the bed, the laptop humming quietly beside him. The secret TikTok account of his son, Alex, was open, the videos a stark contrast to Alex’s often-reserved demeanor. He saw Alex dancing, lip-syncing, laughing in ways David had rarely witnessed in person. A strange combination of awe and bewilderment washed over him.

He felt his brow furrow. He found himself thinking about his own adolescent attempts at fitting in. The awkward dances, the cringe-worthy attempts at coolness. A ghost of a smile touched his lips.

He picked up Alex’s favorite book, a worn copy of a science fiction novel. He knew Alex was meticulous about its care. He had an idea. He opened the book and gently tucked a small, handwritten note inside. "Saw your moves. Pretty good," it read. He hoped that the silent understanding would transcend their usual communications.