Gemotions

The squealing tires and raucous laughter from the street outside jolted Liam awake. He sat up in bed, his heart hammering. It was the teenagers, again. Drag racing, late at night. The noise was making him agitated. He clutched at the sheets.

He knew he should call the police, but the thought terrified him. He pictured them knowing it was him, getting back at him. He felt the familiar weakness spread through his limbs. He hated conflict, hated being the one to cause trouble. He slipped back under the covers, clutching a pillow to his ears.