Gemotions

Rain drummed a monotonous rhythm against the attic window. Mark, curled on the threadbare couch, watched the drops race down the glass, a far more interesting pursuit than the unopened email notification flashing on his laptop. He’d been meaning to respond all morning.

A shrill ring cut through the quiet. His sister. "Mark? Seriously? Pick up!"

He finally reached for the phone. "What now?"

"It’s about Dad’s… thing," she said, her voice tight. "You’re going to need to meet the lawyer. Apparently, there's a surprise."

Mark already knew the 'surprise' wasn't going to be good. He could feel a general resistance to moving from his current position. The idea of navigating the bureaucracy associated with inheritance – and a newfound relative – was exhausting. His muscles felt heavy, his brain foggy. The thought of getting dressed was a chore.

"Ugh, fine. When?" he responded.