Gemotions

The new place was supposed to be a sanctuary, a refuge from the storm. But for Ethan, it felt more like a gilded cage. He stared at the empty walls, the sunlight reflecting off the polished floors, each perfect surface mirroring his own unease. He avoided the unpacking, finding himself instead staring out the window, watching the leaves change.

While examining the plumbing in the basement, he discovered a loose brick in the wall. He pulled it out and felt a rush of cool air. Behind it, a secret room. Inside, a collection of musical instruments sat gathering dust. He picked up a worn guitar and ran his fingers across the strings, the sound a quiet echo in the empty space.