Gemotions

The scent of cedar and old paper filled Amelia's nostrils as she carefully examined the box. She’d always loved the smell of old things, but this felt different. Today felt special. She had been granted permission to go through her great-aunt's keepsakes.

Her breath hitched as she found the first photograph. It was of her mother, who always claimed to have had a difficult childhood, wearing a party dress and beaming. Her hair was perfectly curled, and she was holding a bouquet of flowers. The photograph was labeled “Mother’s Debutante Ball!” Amelia couldn't help but smile at the image.

The next photo was even more surprising. It showed her father, the man who always grumbled about his strict upbringing, posing playfully with a group of friends. They were all wearing silly hats, and he had a giant grin on his face. Amelia's heart felt light. It was as if she was getting to know them all over again, and this new perspective had her on cloud nine.