Gemotions

Liam stared up at the house, a two-story Victorian with gingerbread trim, and felt his breath catch in his throat. It was larger than he'd remembered, more imposing. The porch swing swayed gently in the breeze, a silent invitation. He swallowed hard, his throat suddenly tight. This was it. Their grandmother's legacy. He had expected to feel sad, but this… This was different.

His sister, Chloe, skipped ahead, already heading for the front door. He felt a lag in his body like he was moving underwater. He took one step, then another, his footsteps seeming louder than they should. The windows, dark and reflective, stared back at him, mirroring his own uncertain expression.

Reaching the front door, he stood beside Chloe. She grinned at him. "Ready to explore?" she asked. He just nodded, fumbling for the key.