Gemotions

The tremor in Leo’s hands was so pronounced that he had to set the glass of water down on the kitchen counter. He stared at the water, his reflection staring back, a mask of bewilderment. His sister, Maya, had just announced her conversion to Judaism. He didn't understand. Why? What prompted this sudden shift?

He went over every interaction they’d had over the last few months, searching for a clue, a hint. There was nothing. His heart hammered against his ribs like a trapped bird. He kept going over the details. He hadn't been this… distressed… since that time he lost his keys. He felt a sudden, sharp need to check the locks.

He tried to force a smile, to appear supportive, but his lips felt stiff, unnatural. “That’s… interesting,” he managed, the words catching in his throat.