Gemotions

"And finally," the solicitor intoned, "to William, the family's art gallery. To Emily, the entire contents of the family’s savings account." William got the business. Emily got the money.

The gallery had been their father's life's work. The exhibition spaces were filled with her father’s paintings. He was a talented man. But it had always been her brother who was interested in the family business.

Emily looked around, the gleaming hardwood floors a stark contrast to the hollow feeling in her chest. She found herself imagining the adventures William could have with it. She clenched her jaw, the realization hitting her like a physical blow. The money would provide security, yes. But it wouldn’t offer the passion, the purpose, that she observed in William.

She pushed down on the sharp pain in her chest and plastered a smile on her face.