Gemotions

The demolition crew’s heavy machinery rumbled like a beast outside, each vibration a punch to Elara’s stomach. She hugged herself tighter, perched on the curb across the street, watching. The house, her childhood home, stood defiant, bathed in the harsh morning sunlight. A knot tightened in her chest, making it difficult to breathe. She hadn't slept at all last night, replaying memories, each a phantom limb she was about to lose.

A construction worker, his face obscured by a hard hat, approached her. He offered a polite nod, but his words barely registered. “Ma’am, it’s about to start.” Elara just stared at him, unable to speak. His shadow fell across her, making her feel small and exposed.

She saw the crane’s steel claw swing, a monstrous metal limb reaching for the roof. A whimper escaped her. She squeezed her eyes shut, but the sound of splintering wood, the crunch of a memory being crushed, still echoed in her ears.