Gemotions

The attic air hung thick and dusty, catching in Amelia's throat as she pulled herself up the rickety stairs. She had promised herself she would finally clear it out, but the task always seemed to be pushed aside. Today was different. She had found a box filled with old photographs.

She sat heavily on an overturned crate, sifting through the faded images. A young couple, radiant and laughing, stood on a beach. A wedding, a baby, a life. Amelia felt a cold weight settle in her stomach as she realized she knew nothing of the people who had lived here before her.

The photos brought a sharp sting to her eyes. She imagined them, the couple, the child, their hopes and dreams filling this house. Now, only their ghosts remained. She hadn't even bothered to find out their names. A wave of profound sadness washed over her.