Gemotions

The email sat in Amelia’s inbox, a stark white rectangle against the muted gray background. It was from a lawyer, subject: “Regarding the Estate of Arthur Finch.” Her stomach clenched. Arthur Finch was her father, dead these past five years. She’d handled everything after his passing, a practical woman navigating a painful situation. Now this.

She clicked the email. The words swam before her eyes. “A paternity test… a half-sibling… claiming a share…” Her breath hitched. She felt suddenly very warm, despite the air conditioning. She reread the paragraph, then the entire email, three times. Each time, the words seemed to press in closer, making the office around her feel smaller, tighter.

Amelia stood abruptly, knocking her chair back. The clatter echoed in the silent office. She paced the length of her small workspace, phone clutched to her ear, dialing her best friend's number.

“Hey, Sarah… Look, I need you to come over. Now.” Her voice wavered, a sound she hadn't recognized in years.