Gemotions

The old house felt oppressive, the silence a heavy weight. Clara’s breath hitched as she looked at the photos of her grandfather. The charming, reserved gentleman. He was laughing, sharing a bottle of wine with strangers. The photos didn't match the man she remembered.

Her hands shook as she picked up another picture. She felt her heartbeat accelerate. The carefully curated narrative of her family was a lie, a performance. She felt a burning sensation behind her eyes, a desire to destroy everything.

She threw the photos onto the floor, scattering them like fallen leaves. She felt a strange mix of betrayal and sadness.