Gemotions

The car keys felt heavy in her hand. The drive, usually a calming experience, had been a tense odyssey of what-ifs. Now, at the end of the gravel driveway, her heart drummed against her ribs.

The house loomed, the familiar façade seeming to judge her. She forced a smile and stepped out, the crisp autumn air doing little to soothe the growing unease.

Her father’s voice, jovial as ever, shattered the silence. "Well, look who's here!" He strode out, arms open for a hug. The embrace, usually comforting, felt constricting this time. She cleared her throat, “Hey, Dad.”