Gemotions

The terrier, a whirlwind of energy, had once again decided to excavate under the fence. I saw it, its small, determined face covered in dirt, emerging into my yard, triumphant. I leaned against the doorframe, suddenly exhausted.

A hollow ache settled in my stomach. All the effort, all the planning… gone. I felt a sudden, profound inability to function. My muscles felt like lead.

"Again?" I finally managed to croak, the word a mere whisper. The terrier, sensing no immediate threat, wagged its tail and looked expectantly at me.