Gemotions

The air in the kitchen was thick with the scent of burnt toast and simmering resentment. Liam slammed the toaster oven door shut, the metal shrieking in protest. His sister, Olivia, was humming cheerfully, seemingly oblivious to the tension in the room. This serene facade was his limit.

He kicked at the leg of a chair, the wood groaning. Everything in this house, from the outdated appliances to the mismatched dishes, was a reminder of her. The house, and consequently Olivia, were slowly driving him insane.

“Need any help, Liam?” Olivia asked, her voice laced with an insincere sweetness that made his teeth ache. He glared at her, but said nothing, unable to speak.