Gemotions

The newspaper headline, “Gruesome Discovery in Suburban Home,” was now a permanent fixture in Brenda’s brain. Her stomach churned. The detective, a young woman with kind eyes but a professional demeanor, had confirmed her suspicions. The previous owners, a sweet, elderly couple, had been… victims. She hated the euphemism.

“This is preposterous!” she finally blurted, her hands clenching into fists. She felt a heat rising from her chest, spreading to her face. She’d always considered herself a practical person, but suddenly, the very foundation of her world felt shaky. She wanted to scream, to lash out. The detective remained impassive. Brenda turned away, unable to meet her gaze. The beautiful, sunny kitchen felt like a tomb.