Gemotions

The summer air hung heavy with the scent of jasmine when Liam’s father, a staunch atheist his entire life, declared he was now a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Liam blinked, the words echoing in the sudden silence of the backyard. His father, usually the picture of stoic practicality, stood there radiating an unexpected inner glow.

He felt a curious sensation, like his stomach had suddenly dropped. He wasn’t sure if he should ask a question or if he should run away. Liam’s mind was flooded with confusion. The lawn chairs seemed to wobble. The familiar cicada song felt foreign.

"So," Liam finally managed, his voice sounding thin and reedy, "are we… going to church now?" His father smiled, a completely new expression, and a wave of nausea washed over Liam. The world felt turned upside down.