Gemotions

The grandfather clock, a stalwart of the living room, echoed a constant, steady beat. The pace was at odds with the racing thoughts in his head. His sister was keen to sell it, but it held a memory of a time he couldn't bear to let go of.

He found himself avoiding his sister, the tension between them palpable. Their usual banter was gone, replaced by forced pleasantries that left a bitter taste in his mouth. He felt the constant weight of unspoken words.

He started drinking more, the alcohol a temporary anaesthetic against the pain. He slumped on the sofa, staring at the clock, feeling the relentless march of time and its inevitable cruelty.