Gemotions

The flickering candlelight cast dancing shadows on the walls of the old manor house, reflecting in Iris's wide eyes. Her brother, Thomas, stood by the mantelpiece, his back to her, seemingly absorbed in inspecting a cracked painting. The lawyer cleared his throat. "The inheritance is… divided as stated, equally. However…”

Iris's stomach dropped. The lawyer’s voice cracked. “The family library and its collection of rare books will be split… with Mr. Thomas… receiving the physical books. Miss Iris, will receive the digital versions only.” A tremor ran through her.

She thought of the smell of the old paper, the feel of the leather-bound covers, the way the words felt in her hands. She opened her mouth to speak, but no sound came. Thomas remained motionless, his shoulders unyielding.