Gemotions

"So, you're *my* brother," David murmured to the man across the table, his voice carefully devoid of emotion. He tapped a manicured fingernail against the pristine white tablecloth. The restaurant, of course, was his usual, the one with the panoramic view of the city. He’d made the reservation, naturally.

The half-sibling, a construction worker, looked slightly bewildered, a contrast to David’s smooth composure. He took a long drag from his cigarette, a habit that David, as usual, found deeply distasteful. But the feeling was fleeting, and easily overlooked.

David ordered a bottle of the finest champagne, its bubbles shimmering in the dim light. The construction worker had asked for a beer. David subtly raised an eyebrow. He could feel a surge of pride course through him.

He outlined the terms of the settlement, a generous lump sum. The construction worker listened intently, occasionally nodding. David felt a familiar sensation, a sense of having arranged all the cards in his favor.