Gemotions

The key scraped in the lock, a sound that echoed the ache in Leo's chest. He pushed the heavy oak door open, dust motes dancing in the shafts of light. His sister, Maya, followed him in, her face a pale reflection of his own mixed emotions.

He walked over to the fireplace and traced the cold stone, the rough texture grounding him. The quiet seemed to amplify the silence of their grandmother’s absence.

“This place… it’s full of her, isn't it?” Maya whispered, her voice barely audible. He turned, and watched as she took a deep breath.

He nodded, wanting to ease her sadness. “Come on, let’s go open the windows. Let the sunshine in.” He reached for her hand and gave it a squeeze, a silent promise.