Gemotions

The listing's description of the house as "an excellent investment opportunity" stung like a physical blow. James felt a surge of heat rush up his neck. An investment? This wasn’t just a property; it was a repository of his youth.

The new landscaping looked sterile and impersonal. The familiar swing set, where he’d spent endless summer afternoons, was gone. Replaced by an outdoor kitchen.

He slammed his fist on the table, the force startling him. He felt betrayed, violated. He had to do something. Anything.