Gemotions

"This place is falling apart," Clara's brother, James, muttered, his voice echoing in the kitchen. He was running his hands along the cracked countertops. She barely registered his words. She stared out of the window at the rain, a grey curtain that mirrored her mood.

She had agreed to inherit the house with him, but the responsibility felt like a mountain she couldn't climb. She felt like an imposter.

She watched the rain batter the window panes, each drop a tiny hammer blow against her already fragile state. He began making a list of repairs, but she couldn't bring herself to help.

She retreated to a dusty corner of the kitchen, feeling utterly lost.