Gemotions

The clanging of the dog tag against the metal fence post echoed in the otherwise silent garden. He felt a sudden, sharp jolt of displeasure, like a physical blow. He'd been looking forward to a relaxing afternoon, and now this.

His palms were prickling with sweat, and the muscles in his neck felt taut. The dog was now chasing a squirrel, and digging holes. He clenched his fists, struggling to keep his tone neutral.

He would have a word with the neighbor, he thought. He had tried to be civil, polite, but enough was enough. This was an ongoing assault on his sanity.