Gemotions

The realtor offered a bright, insincere smile as he rattled off potential buyers. “Prime real estate, really. Lot of potential,” he kept saying. Ethan, however, could only see a bottomless pit of repairs and demands for his time and money. His sister, Maya, stood beside him, her face unreadable.

He tugged at his collar, feeling like he was choking. The idea of selling the house, of just letting it go, was both a relief and a betrayal. He felt his pulse thrum in his ears.

He made an excuse to go to the bathroom, needing to get out. He splashed cold water on his face, trying to calm his racing thoughts. Looking in the mirror, his reflection seemed pale and drawn.