Gemotions

The attic air tasted of dust and forgotten things. Clara giggled, a tiny sound lost in the cavernous space. Sunlight sliced through a crack in the boarded-up window, illuminating motes of dancing dust. She bounced on the balls of her feet, her hands itching to explore. A trunk, bound in iron and leather, sat in the corner. "Ooh, a treasure chest!" she exclaimed, her voice barely a whisper before she slapped her hand over her mouth.

She wrestled with the stubborn clasp, her breath catching in her throat. Inside, a kaleidoscope of colors awaited. A stack of silk scarves, a porcelain doll with missing limbs, and a stack of yellowed letters. Clara let out a joyous shriek and pulled out a scarf, draping it over her head, striking a pose. She then began to act out an extravagant dance.