Gemotions

The setting sun cast long, elongated shadows across the dusty rooms, mirroring the shadow that had fallen over Thomas's life. He leaned against the kitchen counter, arms crossed, watching his sister, Sarah, explore the cabinets. She was humming, her spirit buoyed by the prospect of renovation. He felt nothing.

He picked up a chipped teacup, turning it over in his hands. The rough texture was a poor substitute for the comfort he desperately craved. The silence was the worst, an insistent reminder of what he had lost.

"We have so much work to do!" Sarah exclaimed, her voice bright. Thomas just nodded, the gesture automatic. He felt his head starting to ache, a familiar sensation. He needed to be alone.