Gemotions

The photograph in her hand trembled. A picture of her and her brother, beaming, in front of the Christmas tree. He'd been the one to insist on the tree. The house felt smaller today, even from outside.

She'd argued with her father constantly about the house. He'd wanted to sell it years ago. She had put her own needs before his. Now, she'd lost both the house and his forgiveness, her own foolish actions leading to this moment.

She closed her eyes, the image of the photograph burned into her mind. She should have understood. She should have listened. The crunch of the wrecking ball against brick was a judgment she deserved.