Gemotions

The basement air was cold and damp, a physical chill that mirrored the weariness that coursed through Leo's veins. He was supposed to be helping his sister clear out their grandmother's house, but the task felt like wading through molasses. Each movement was a struggle, and his mind felt sluggish. He just wanted to stop.

He grabbed a box and dumped its contents onto the floor. The first thing he saw was a handwritten letter from his mother. He stared at it, the words seeming to dance before his eyes. The pages were covered in neat, looping handwriting. He found a collection of his report cards. He found notes from his mother, saying “good job” and “I am proud.”

A heavy feeling settled in his chest, making it hard to breathe. He blinked, the words blurring. He sat there, staring at the papers, a profound sense of… something washing over him.