Gemotions

The clatter of the train set, a source of childhood delight, now grated on her nerves. Sarah’s son, Ben, had inherited her love of model railways, but his interest was far more intense, demanding, consuming. He now sought to build a whole layout, and spent every waking moment hunched over the tracks.

She retreated to the kitchen, the sounds of the trains echoing through the house, becoming a background noise that made her head ache. She rubbed her temples, trying to block out the clickety-clack.

Ben appeared in the doorway. "Mom, can you help me with the wiring?" She felt her throat constrict, the words, a refusal, poised on her lips. She forced a smile, a shaky gesture that betrayed her turmoil.