Gemotions

The scent of antiseptic and stale coffee filled the air as Fiona sat rigidly in the hospital waiting room. Her brother, Liam, tapped a pen against his notepad, a rhythmic percussion that grated on her already frayed nerves. She found it difficult to breathe. They were here, at the lawyer’s insistence, after their father's long illness.

The will reading began, the lawyer's voice a low rumble. Fiona listened to the details about the business, the savings, the family cabin. Liam, of course, was designated to manage the family business. Fiona had always wanted nothing to do with it.

Then, “And to Fiona, a complete set of antique medical instruments, along with a significant sum to fund further education in the field.” Fiona felt a wave of heat wash over her, and she suddenly felt a need to escape. Liam’s pen stopped tapping. He raised his head, and gave her a long look.