Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the kitchen, a scent usually associated with warmth and comfort. But tonight, it only served to highlight the coldness in Alice’s heart. Her brother, Michael, had announced he was joining another faith. He'd always been the steady one, the anchor of their family.

She kneaded the dough with a rhythmic, almost violent, motion, the physical effort failing to quell the turmoil within. She thought of future family gatherings, the holidays, the shared traditions. Would they still have anything in common?

Alice slammed the dough onto the counter, the sound echoing in the room. A wave of exhaustion washed over her. She knew she needed to accept it, but right now, it felt impossible.