Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mirroring the tempest inside Thomas. He hadn't touched his coffee, the bitter smell doing nothing to soothe the tension knotting his shoulders. His daughter, Lily, had skipped into the kitchen this morning, chattering about her new teacher, Mr. Henderson. Thomas had frozen. *Henderson?* The name echoed in his skull, a dull, unwelcome thud. He’d hated Mr. Henderson.

He found himself staring at the calendar, as if the date held some hidden meaning, some explanation for this cruel twist. He’d barely spoken to Lily all day, a silence that felt heavier than the soaked leaves clinging to the driveway. He picked at a loose thread on the armchair, the action providing little comfort, only a small distraction from the thought of Henderson’s condescending smile.

He found himself pacing the hallway, a restless energy coursing through him. He was desperate for some solace. He pulled his coat on, the familiar weight a small comfort, then headed out the door, into the grey, unforgiving afternoon.