Gemotions

It felt as though a steel band was tightening around Ben's chest. He stared at the house from across the street, unable to bring himself to cross the threshold. Each passing moment seemed to amplify the internal pressure, a gathering storm within him. He fidgeted, running a hand through his hair, then jamming his hands deep into his pockets.

He remembered his sister’s laughter echoing from the backyard, the scent of fresh-cut grass, the creak of the porch swing on summer evenings. All of it, gone. The knowledge settled in his gut like a lead weight.

He crossed the street and planted his feet in the grass, willing himself to feel calm, but his body wouldn't comply.