Gemotions

The demolition crew’s heavy machinery sat dormant, a metal leviathan poised before the little blue house. It was a still morning, the air thick and heavy with the promise of summer heat. Sarah ran a hand across her face, smudging the sunscreen she’d applied hours ago. She hadn't slept well in a week, her thoughts churning with every creak and groan of the old house.

She walked towards the front porch, the boards protesting her weight with each step. Dust motes danced in the sunlight, illuminated by the gaps in the weathered roof. A wave of nausea rolled through her, a familiar companion these past few days.

"Remember when we used to..." she began, her voice trailing off. Her brother, Mark, didn't meet her gaze. He was staring at the ground, hands shoved deep in his pockets.