Gemotions

The investigator's file lay open on Daniel's kitchen table. The stark black and white photos. The victim's face, staring blankly upwards. He’d found the house of his dreams, a beautiful craftsman, and now he was overwhelmed by an oppressive sense of responsibility.

He was on the verge of canceling the housewarming party he’d planned. The thought of strangers celebrating within these walls, unaware of the violence that had taken place here, was deeply unsettling. He was supposed to be excited, but all he felt was this heavy, hollow ache.

He picked up a hammer, and went to the basement. He started banging on the walls, putting all his energy into it, but the feeling wouldn't stop. He was trapped in this cycle of regret, and he didn't know how to stop.