Gemotions

The clatter of the miniature train set being assembled in the living room was grating. Elias shifted in his armchair, the crossword puzzle momentarily forgotten. His daughter, Lily, was at it again, meticulously arranging the tracks, the tiny plastic trees, the little stationmaster figure. He'd spent years building model railways, a solace after a difficult day at work, a quiet pursuit. Now, the tiny world was under siege, invaded by a child's boundless enthusiasm.

“Dad, can you help me connect this bit?” Lily’s voice, a bright chime, cut through the silence. Elias sighed, a small, tight sound. He took a deep breath and plastered on a smile. “Sure, sweetie.” He rose, the stiff creaks of his knees echoing the tension building in his shoulders. The trains were now *everywhere*.