Gemotions

The afternoon light filtered softly through the lace curtains of the study, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. He sat in his grandfather's old armchair, a book resting open in his lap, the silence punctuated only by the gentle ticking of the grandfather clock. He idly stroked the smooth leather of the chair arm, enjoying the familiar weight of the book in his hands. He felt entirely present in the moment, enjoying the peace.

His sister’s voice, tight with emotion, broke the quiet. "They want to let go of the family bible,” she announced, barely able to keep her voice steady.

He felt a sudden shift, a coldness spreading through his limbs. The bible, bound in worn leather, had been passed down through generations. He closed his eyes, the image of it so clear in his mind. "Sell it?" he echoed, a hollowness welling up inside.