Gemotions

The photograph, propped up on the mantelpiece, seemed to mock her. Her brother, Michael, beamed back at her, his face radiant with the joy of his new faith in the Church of Scientology. She picked it up, tracing his face with a trembling finger.

Her throat constricted. They had shared everything growing up, every birthday, every disappointment. Now, he was talking about a "clear state" and auditing, concepts that felt alien and distant. She felt disconnected.

She returned the photo to its place, its cheerful image a stark contrast to the emptiness she felt. The room felt suddenly too small, too full of the memories that now felt tainted.