Gemotions

"The estate is divided, as per your mother's wishes," announced the stern-faced executor. Beside Leo, his sister, Clara, practically bounced with contained glee. He, on the other hand, felt the familiar prickle of unease crawl up his spine.

The announcement was met with a shared, hushed breath. "Clara receives the family's art collection – a treasure trove of priceless works." Clara gasped, hand flying to her mouth, tears welling in her eyes, tears of joy. Leo felt a lump form in his throat. He thought of his mother, her love of art, and the life it had given her.

"Leo," the executor continued, "receives the family's small business – a failing dry-cleaning establishment." Leo stared at his hands, calloused from years of trying and failing, now in his head, a lifetime of mistakes and disappointments. He pictured himself in a soiled apron, another failure to his name.

Clara was already sketching out plans for a gallery. Her eyes shone. Leo muttered a congratulatory response, his voice barely audible. He felt himself shrinking in the vast, elegant room, the polished floor reflecting his inadequacy.