Gemotions

The slow, methodical clicks of the grandfather clock in the hallway seemed to amplify the silence in the house. Amelia leaned against the doorframe, watching the movement of the second hand, a constant reminder of the passage of time. She'd always loved the gentle rhythm and the comforting chimes. She longed for earlier, simpler days.

A flash of light from the kitchen caught her attention. Her husband, Robert, normally engrossed in a game of chess, was standing by the counter, hunched over his phone. He immediately ended the call as he noticed her.

"What was that?" she asked quietly. He shrugged. "Just a work call. Nothing important." His words felt like a hollow echo in the quiet room.