Gemotions

The chess pieces sat on the board, still in their starting positions. The game, like everything else, felt stale. John sighed, rubbing his temples. He was supposed to be preparing for a chess tournament, but the prospect felt… unappealing.

His daughter, Maya, however, was a natural. At twelve, she devoured chess strategy books, analyzed games online, and played with a fierce intensity. John would spend hours with her, moving the pieces, and being beaten soundly. He was glad to see his daughter's skill, but a strange hollowness would wash over him.

“Dad, let’s play!” Maya chirped, bouncing on her heels. He looked at the board, feeling a momentary flash of something akin to regret. "Alright," he said, forcing a smile. Perhaps today, he’d actually try.