Gemotions

From the porch swing, Leo watched his sister, Maya, talking to a real estate agent. He pushed his hands deep into his pockets. The knot in his stomach that had been there for weeks was beginning to loosen. He should feel guilt, but he didn't. He knew Maya had wanted the house, more than he did.

He stood up, stretched slowly, every muscle protesting with a satisfying ache. He felt like he could float. The weight of family expectations and obligation – it was gone.

He took a deep breath of the crisp autumn air. He had a whole new chapter to write.