Gemotions

Michael watched his brother, David, happily hacking away at the overgrown rose bushes in the backyard. Sweat beaded on David’s brow, but he kept humming, a contented sound that grated on Michael's ears. The inherited house was a fixer-upper, and David, with his practical skills, seemed in his element.

The thought occurred to Michael that he should be there helping, but he couldn't bring himself to. He walked into the kitchen, the scent of fresh-brewed coffee filling the air. David had already set up the coffee maker. He was already planning and making changes.

“Looks like you’re enjoying yourself,” Michael said, his tone flat. David looked up, a smudge of dirt on his cheek. "Yeah! It’s great. Remember how Grandma loved these roses? I'm going to bring them back to life." Michael shifted his weight, suddenly feeling the confines of the room press on him.