Gemotions

The key scraped in the lock, a sound that grated on Ethan’s nerves. He pushed the front door open, the stale air of the house rushing out to greet him. His sister, Olivia, was already inside, her face alight with something he couldn't name.

He didn't want to be here. He didn’t want to sort through the clutter, to remember. He felt a burning in his chest, a pressure that wouldn't release. He took a heavy breath.

"Smells like old age," he muttered, avoiding Olivia's gaze. He felt a sudden urge to break something, to tear down the carefully preserved façade of their grandmother's life. He shoved his hands in his pockets, fists balled.