Gemotions

The house seemed to hum with unspoken grief. Alex stood in the doorway of the living room, the air thick with the scent of dried flowers and stale air. His sister, Beth, was already planning a garage sale, her voice bright and efficient. He felt a deep, throbbing emptiness.

He went to the library, running a hand over the spines of the books. He remembered his grandmother reading to him, her voice warm and comforting. Now, the silence was a tangible thing, a heavy blanket that smothered all sound. He felt a profound sense of sadness, an ache that resonated through his bones.

“I’m going to start on the attic,” Beth called. He didn’t reply. He closed his eyes, the weight of the house settling upon him. He remained in place.