Gemotions

"The house…" The words tumbled from Maya’s lips, a barely audible exhale. Her brother, Daniel, was rummaging through his bag, seemingly oblivious to the gravity of the situation. He was searching for a pen, of all things. Maya, however, felt a deep hollowness, a cavern within her chest.

The lawyer, a woman with a severe bun, continued to drone on about the probate process. Maya barely registered the details. She was lost, adrift in a sea of shock. The vibrant blue of the lawyer’s suit seemed painfully bright. She felt as though she was watching a movie of her own life, unable to influence the plot.

Daniel finally found the pen. He looked up, his brow furrowed. "Are you alright?" he asked, his voice laced with concern. Maya blinked slowly, unable to answer. She just shook her head, the movement slow and deliberate.