Gemotions

The keys felt heavy in his hand, a physical manifestation of the weight he carried. James stared at the front door, the paint blistered and faded. His sister, Lily, had gone ahead, already exploring the house, her energy a jarring contrast to his subdued state. He just stood there, unmoving.

He wandered through the rooms, the silence a physical presence. The sun streamed through the dusty windows, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. He felt a deep, abiding ache, a longing for something he couldn't grasp. The thought of sorting through his grandmother's belongings filled him with a feeling of dread.

He heard Lily calling from upstairs. He moved, slowly, his feet dragging, each step an effort. He felt like the world was moving around him, while he was mired in a stagnant pond.