Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of the gloomy manor house, mirroring the turmoil in Julian's chest. His sister, Clara, sat beside him, radiating an irritating calm. She was the picture of composure.

The will was read. "Mr. Julian inherits the old family mill, including the adjacent farmland, and the family's financial assets." Julian felt a surge of something hot and bitter rising in his throat. He’d always felt like this would be his path. He thought, briefly, of his father, of the work.

"Miss Clara will inherit the family's ancestral home, with all its contents, and a lifetime supply of rare perfumes." Clara smiled, a soft, self-satisfied curve of her lips. Julian felt his stomach churn. The house. The perfumes. He focused on the damp scent of the old house.