Gemotions

David found the book in a box of old things. He wasn't sure why he was keeping it. The book was a collection of short stories, and in it, he discovered a note. The note was from a soldier who wrote home to his beloved.

As he read the soldier's longing, the pride he felt for his country, and his hopeful wishes for a better future, David’s chest tightened. He sat at the desk, lost in thought. He didn't think he deserved the warmth of a fire. He felt the echoes of his own failures.

He tossed the letter back inside the book, then shut the book and set it on the table. He stood up, then walked away. He turned back. He picked up the book and carried it outside. He tossed it in the trash.