Gemotions

The realtor had called it "charming." Daniel thought it was more like "overwhelming." He'd spent his life with his aunt, a woman who'd managed every aspect of his existence. Now, in this rambling, old house, he was paralyzed by the simplest decisions. What kind of paint? Which direction should the sofa face?

He stumbled upon the hidden room while attempting to hang a picture in the dining room. The nail he hammered struck something solid and the wall gave way. He felt a jolt of panic, the world tipping slightly.

The room was tiny, filled with old toys and a child's drawings on the wall. He wanted to call his aunt, to ask her what he should do, but the phone felt too far away. He ran his hand over the worn surface of the table, looking for a way out.