Gemotions

The musty scent of old paper and wood filled the air as Maria climbed the attic stairs. She hated attics, the claustrophobia of them, the feeling of being closed in. She was supposed to be looking for old holiday decorations, but the attic seemed determined to distract her.

She found a collection of handwritten journals. She began reading. The author, a woman named Elizabeth, chronicled her life, her hopes, her disappointments. Maria had been looking for a sense of belonging in this new home.

The woman’s words were haunting. She could feel the woman's loneliness, her yearning for connection. As she closed the last journal, a chill settled over her. She knew a great deal more about the past, but less about her own future.