Gemotions

The grand, Victorian house loomed before them, a monument to their shared past. Liam swallowed, the knot in his stomach tightening as he reached for the doorknob. His sister, Chloe, stood beside him, her expression unreadable.

He pushed the door open, the hinges groaning in protest. He could almost hear his grandmother's voice, scolding him for letting the paint peel.

"It's bigger than I remember," Chloe said quietly. Her voice was steady, but he knew the grief was there. He reached out, touching her arm.

"We'll fix it up," he said, his voice a little rough. "Together." He felt the urge to protect her, to take the burden, and he stood tall.

Chloe met his gaze, and her lips tilted up. "Okay."