Gemotions

The key scraped in the lock, the sound echoing in the silent hallway. David stepped inside, the house feeling larger than he remembered. He dropped his bag by the door, the weight of it mirroring the burden he carried. He felt like a failure.

His mother called from the kitchen, her voice bright, almost too cheerful. "David? Is that you, dear?" He hesitated, then walked towards the sound.

She was at the stove, humming a cheerful tune. She turned, her face lighting up when she saw him. She didn't say anything about why he was there, didn't ask about his circumstances. She simply smiled and said, "Dinner will be ready soon. Why don't you go settle in?"

He nodded, a sense of relief washing over him. He walked to the living room, the familiar furniture a welcome sight. He sank onto the sofa, the softness a comfort. He closed his eyes, grateful for the quiet.