Gemotions

Sarah sighed dramatically, lowering herself into the floral armchair. "Well," she announced to her parents, surveying the room as if it were a poorly curated museum. "It's… cozy." She smoothed down her expensive silk dress. Her parents had been living in this house for *ages*.

Her mother, Carol, was bustling in the kitchen, making tea. Sarah watched her, a slight curve to her lips. She had a new job now, a better job, the kind that came with a company car and expense account. "Honestly, Mother, that wallpaper… it's really not in vogue anymore."

Later, at dinner, she delicately picked at her mashed potatoes, before putting the fork down in a considered manner. "You know, the presentation could use some… refinement. I’ve been taking a course on modern culinary techniques." She smiled, a gesture that didn't quite reach her eyes. Her father, John, simply blinked at her.

The next morning, she was already on her laptop when her mother came in, looking tired. “I've booked you an appointment with my stylist. She’ll get you looking presentable for that new job," Sarah said, without looking up.