Gemotions

Sweat prickled at the back of Amelia’s neck as she navigated the crowded probate court. The air hung thick and heavy, smelling faintly of stale coffee and bureaucratic dread. Her brother, David, was supposed to be here, but as usual, he was running late.

She drummed her fingers on the cold metal of the bench, her gaze darting around the room, always searching. The lawyer, Mr. Henderson, a man whose face seemed permanently set in a disapproving frown, cleared his throat.

She took a breath, trying to steady herself. This whole situation felt fragile, like a house of cards ready to collapse. She had to keep it together. For her. For her brother.