Gemotions

The afternoon light filtered weakly through the dusty blinds, illuminating floating dust motes. Chloe, draped across her couch, stared at the ceiling. The ceiling was much more interesting than the email from the lawyer she'd received two days ago. It had been sitting unopened, a digital testament to her present state.

Finally, she decided to open the email. The subject line, "Important Information Regarding Your Father’s Estate," sent a shiver of mild annoyance through her. The body of the email detailed the existence of a half-sister. Chloe felt a dull ache in her temples. The idea of engaging with a whole new person, with their drama and expectations, felt intensely draining. She closed the laptop, returning her gaze to the ceiling, which somehow seemed more engaging.