Gemotions

The courtroom felt oppressively warm. A bead of sweat trickled down Amelia’s temple as the judge read the will. Her brother, Charles, sat beside her, his usual jovial demeanor replaced with a tense stillness. They were expecting to split their grandfather's business, a lucrative construction firm.

The judge cleared his throat. “Miss Amelia will inherit the entirety of the construction company.” Amelia's shoulders slumped in relief. Finally, a resolution.

"And Mr. Charles receives… ownership of the family’s prize-winning poodle, Princess Fluffybutt the Third, along with all associated grooming expenses.” Charles’ jaw went slack. The courtroom air felt charged with something akin to electricity.

Amelia struggled to maintain a straight face, her hands balling into fists. A high-pitched giggle escaped her lips.