Gemotions

A bead of sweat trickled down Leo’s temple as he paced the sun-drenched living room. The antique clock, a legacy from his grandfather, gleamed in the sunlight. Today was the day. His Aunt Mildred had finally agreed. He could feel a strange bubbling in his chest, a lightness that made him almost bounce on the balls of his feet. He’d already emailed three potential buyers.

He reached for the phone, then stopped himself. No. He needed to appear calm, collected. But the tremor in his fingers betrayed him. He could practically taste the future, the sleek, new sports car that would soon be his.

Aunt Mildred’s voice, frail but firm, crackled over the phone. “Yes, Leo, I’ll be there. And yes, I'm sure.” Leo's lips curved into a grin. He took a deep breath, the scent of lemon furniture polish filling his lungs. It was going to happen.