Gemotions

The house felt cold, even with the summer sun streaming through the windows. Richard watched his sister, Carol, meticulously catalogue their grandmother’s belongings. He'd always been the one who felt ignored. The family had made him feel like an afterthought.

"Just taking inventory," Carol said, her voice bright, almost too cheerful.

He had been working away at the insurance company for some time. There were issues with the water heater. It was old. No one noticed. He would take care of it.

He picked up a porcelain doll, its painted eyes staring blankly ahead. He placed it carefully on the floor. He knew exactly where the doll would end up.