Gemotions

The letter arrived during the annual family reunion. Liam, already feeling a bit out of sorts, retreated to the quiet of the guest bedroom. The sight of the envelope, tucked amongst the usual celebratory cards, sent a shiver through him. He felt suddenly ill.

He sat on the bed, the mattress sagging beneath his weight, and stared at the letter. He had hoped, against all reason, that it would never come. He picked at the corner of the envelope, a nervous habit, unsure if he could bring himself to open it. His appetite had vanished.