Gemotions

The move had been hard. Daniel, a man usually brimming with joviality, now found himself retreating. The unfamiliar rooms of his new home amplified his feelings, each echo a reminder of his own isolation. He stared at the newly painted walls, feeling a deep, persistent pang of melancholy.

He stumbled upon the hidden room quite by accident. He was investigating a persistent draft in the guest bedroom. A loose panel in the wall revealed a narrow staircase leading downwards. He descended with trepidation. The air grew colder, heavier.

The room at the bottom was tiny, windowless, and held a single, tarnished silver locket. He picked it up, his hand trembling slightly, and with it, a wave of profound sorrow crashed over him. He felt as though a great sorrow had taken root in his chest and was slowly blooming.