Gemotions

"It’s just… practical," her sister, Emily, was saying, her voice a little too bright. She was looking at the intricately carved wooden rocking horse, its painted eyes staring blankly at the ceiling. "It's not like you're using it."

Laura nodded slowly, her fingers tracing the horse's mane. The words hung in the air, a heavy weight. She knew this day was coming. Dad had a gambling habit, and they were always selling off their family treasures to cover his losses.

She felt a hollowness inside, a vast emptiness. It was a familiar sensation, a constant companion. She could almost feel herself shrink, her spirit retreating. The horse would be sold, like her childhood. She kept her head down, her face hidden behind a curtain of hair.

"It's just that..." Emily's voice faded. Laura didn't hear the rest.