Gemotions

The weight of the violin case felt almost unbearable. Their parents had left them a choice. Her sister, Emily, had inherited their successful flower shop; she, the battered, old instrument. Her palms were sweating as she opened the case, revealing the worn wood and missing strings.

She ran her fingers over the cold surface. The scent of aged varnish filled her nostrils, a smell that both repelled and drew her in. The thought of playing it, of facing the silence of the practice room, filled her with a profound sense of foreboding.

Emily was already arranging the flowers, humming cheerfully. She glanced over at her, her expression one of innocent excitement. “Aren’t you excited, Olivia?” Olivia felt a knot tighten in her throat.