Gemotions

The email notification snagged his attention. "New Listing in Your Area." He clicked, his heart quickening a little. His childhood home. He scrolled through the professional photos. The manicured lawn, the updated siding, the pristine interior. He felt a profound sense of loss, a weight settling in his shoulders.

He imagined the laughter of his sisters echoing through the rooms. He recalled the countless hours spent playing hide-and-seek among the furniture. He remembered the feeling of safety and belonging that permeated the house. His hand instinctively reached up to touch his chest.

The description mentioned "move-in ready" and "modern updates." He thought of his parents, who had poured their hearts and souls into making that house a home. He slowly shut down the computer. The thought of strangers inhabiting the space where he grew up made his stomach churn.