Gemotions

“Home sweet home,” she breathed, the words barely audible. The house felt huge, echoing with the absence of her own noise. The kitchen, the heart of the home, was immaculately clean, the countertops gleaming. Her dad was already at the stove, making pancakes.

She watched him, noticing the way his shoulders slumped slightly with age. A lump formed in her throat. She found herself reaching out and touching his arm. He turned, a surprised look on his face. “Everything alright, honey?” She just nodded, unable to speak. The familiarity of the scene struck her with full force.