Gemotions

Sunlight dappled through the leaves of the old oak tree in the backyard, casting dancing shadows on the patio stones. Liam reclined on his comfortable chair, a chilled lemonade sweating in his hand. He closed his eyes, savoring the warmth on his face, the slow thrum of cicadas buzzing in the branches overhead. A book lay open on his lap, unread.

Suddenly, a loud banging echoed from the neighboring house. Liam opened his eyes, mildly annoyed. Mrs. Rodriguez, his neighbor, was at the fence, her face contorted with anger. “Liam! The bass! It's shaking my house!” she yelled.

Liam let out a breath, a faint smile playing on his lips. He'd forgotten he'd turned up the stereo. He slowly rose, stretching languidly. “Sorry, Mrs. Rodriguez. Won’t happen again.” He sauntered back towards the speaker, a feeling of deep satisfaction still washing through him.