Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mirroring the tempest within Liam. His older sister, Grace, had decided to become a Jehovah's Witness. The announcement had struck him with a blow, leaving him winded. He stared out at the downpour, the world a blur of gray.

He remembered shared jokes, whispered secrets, and the comforting familiarity of their shared childhood. Now, it felt like those memories were fading, dissolving in the relentless rain. His throat closed, and a wave of nausea rolled through him.

He retreated to his room, slamming the door. He kicked at a discarded soccer ball, sending it skittering across the floor. He felt a deep, profound sense of loss, as though something precious had been stolen.