Gemotions

The letter, penned in elegant calligraphy, described a deep, abiding loneliness. She’d found it in her mother’s things. The sun streaming through the window seemed harsh, unforgiving. Her breath caught in her throat.

She felt a cold wave wash over her. Every noise, the distant hum of traffic, the chirping of birds, grated on her nerves. The house felt too large, the silence too profound. She gripped the letter.

She couldn't stop reading, even though each word was a fresh stab. Her stomach churned.