Gemotions

The online cooking tutorial flashed on the screen, showing the exact steps for his "Grandma's Gingerbread Cookies." A tightness clutched at Ben's throat. He felt paralyzed, unable to move.

He relied on the recipe to bring him joy. It was a connection to his past, a bond to his grandmother. He felt as though someone had invaded his most personal and private space. It was the only way he felt he could earn money and provide for his family.

He stared at the screen, the cheerful voice of the host grating on his nerves. He needed the income from the cooking class. His wife and children depended on him to keep it going, to make sure they had a home, food, and clothes. He felt the familiar weight of responsibility crushing him.

He swallowed hard, then forced himself to get up and go to the kitchen. He had to keep making the cookies, the cookies that brought him so much joy.