Gemotions

The email sat in Amelia's inbox, bold and undeniable. “You have a sibling. A half-sibling, to be precise.” Her fingers trembled as she clicked the link to the family history website. A photo stared back at her: Liam. His smile was dazzling, and a disconcerting echo of her own. She spent the next hour scrolling through his profile, devouring every detail. He liked hiking, just like her. He'd gone to the same college. She felt a lightness, a bubbling excitement that made her stomach feel like a trampoline. She wanted to know everything about him, from his favorite color to his deepest fears.

Later that evening, Amelia found herself reorganizing her bookshelf, pulling out all her favourite books. It felt like she had to be ready for something. She caught herself wondering, if they met, what stories would she tell him? A laugh escaped her, giddy and unexpected. She ran a hand through her hair, smoothing it.