Gemotions

The solicitor had just finished the reading. David, expecting the family farm, leaned back, a smug smile playing on his lips. His sister, Sarah, fidgeted, biting her lip.

The will stipulated their parents' possessions be divided. David was bequeathed the land. Sarah, however, received a seemingly insignificant box. He watched her open it.

Inside, nestled in cotton batting, was a small, ornate music box. Sarah’s fingers danced over the lid, tracing the swirling gold inlays. She wound it, and a delicate melody filled the room. Her body went utterly still, every muscle frozen as she gazed into the moving figures. The corners of her eyes crinkled.