Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the kitchen, a stark contrast to the hollow feeling that had taken root in David's stomach. His niece, Chloe, had left the drawing on the counter, next to the cooling rack. It depicted a smiling, three-headed dog, just like the one he used to imagine.

He’d been avoiding his sister, avoiding the family gatherings, avoiding the pain. He knew he should have been there for her when she went through her hard time. He'd been too wrapped up in his own self-pity.

He stared at the drawing, a lump forming in his throat. He reached for the phone, his fingers hovering over the dial pad. He needed to apologize.