Gemotions

The air hung heavy with the smell of old books and unspoken tension. John, perched on the edge of the sofa, stared blankly at the bookshelves. His grandmother, a staunch Presbyterian, was now embracing atheism.

The silence that had fallen upon the family was profound. He felt a deep sense of… disconnect. He found himself picking at the worn fabric of the sofa cushion, the repetitive action failing to provide any solace.

He closed his eyes, replaying his grandmother's declaration. A coldness spread through him, and the usual warmth of the room seemed to have evaporated. He felt suddenly and completely alone.