Gemotions

The key scraped in the lock, a sound that grated on Ethan’s ears. He pushed the door open, the hinges groaning in protest. The sun, already dipping below the horizon, cast long, distorted shadows across the living room. He felt a deep, pervasive weariness settle over him. He felt as though every muscle in his body was pulling.

His sister, Chloe, skipped past him, already exploring the kitchen. "Smells like Grandma's baking in here!" she chirped. Ethan simply mumbled a response, his mouth dry. The thought of sorting through the contents of the house, of making any decisions at all, seemed overwhelming.