Gemotions

The attic air was thick with dust and the scent of forgotten memories. Liam’s heart hammered against his ribs as he stared at the passbook, the numbers stark and glaring. He found it tucked inside a box labeled “old photographs.” The shock of it still hadn't fully subsided.

He felt a sudden need for fresh air. Leaving the dusty attic, he went to the back garden, the late afternoon sun warm on his face. He found himself pacing back and forth, unable to relax, his fists clenched tight. The birds' chirping sounded shrill, grating on his ears.