Gemotions

Liam stared at the laptop screen, the bright light reflecting in his wide eyes. "Inspiration for Aspiring Engineers: An Example Essay." His essay. The one about rebuilding the family barn after the tornado. He felt a profound sense of…discomfort.

He remembered the late nights, the calloused hands, the bitter taste of defeat when the roof collapsed a second time. It was a story etched on his very being. Now, it was a template.

He reached for his phone, and texted his sister: “Remember when Dad helped me with the roof?” The response came instantly: “Yep. I miss him.” Liam found himself holding the phone close to his chest. He closed his eyes, remembering the way his father’s hands smelled of sawdust and sweat, and the quiet pride in his father’s voice when they finally finished. He felt a tear trace a path down his cheek, and he swallowed hard.