Gemotions

The musty smell of old paper clung to the air in the library, a suffocating blanket. Caleb stared at the leather-bound book in his hands, a feeling of profound apathy settling over him. His sister, Iris, had found the artwork – a priceless collection of original illustrations. He’d received their parents’ stock portfolio, a hefty sum, but it felt meaningless.

He turned a page, his fingers tracing the delicate lines of a forgotten landscape. He felt nothing. Not joy, not wonder, just…emptiness. He'd barely left his room since the will was read.

Iris, oblivious to his struggles, bounced into the room. "Can you believe it, Caleb? Each one is worth a fortune!"

He nodded slowly, the motion feeling like a monumental effort.