Gemotions

The echo of the unanswered phone call resonated in her ears. Claire had been so eager to connect with her father. Now, it felt like a betrayal. His secrets had always been a mystery to her. She thought he was a good man, but now that he was gone, she felt as if she didn't know him at all.

The new information felt heavy, like a stone in her chest. She had a half-sister, and a whole lifetime of missed opportunities now stretched out before her. She had been so close, and yet, so far.

She picked up the phone again, then hesitated, her finger hovering over the dial button. Her mouth was dry. She took a deep, shaky breath, knowing that this was a step she had to take, however difficult it was to do so.