Gemotions

The time capsule, found in the neglected rose garden, felt heavy in her arms. She’d been avoiding the garden for months, a place that now represented so much lost joy. Each deep breath felt difficult. She rubbed her arms, as if to ward off a chill.

Her fingers trembled as she undid the clasp. The sunlight seemed to intensify, making her squint. She didn't want to know. She felt a growing desire to just run away.

She took one last, deep breath, and opened it. Inside she saw a drawing, some old postcards, and a small, tarnished music box. She closed the box and looked away, the weight of the past suddenly unbearable.