Gemotions

The dog started barking, a high-pitched yelp that mirrored the rising pitch of the man's own aggravation. His head throbbed. He’d just finished a long shift at the hospital and had been looking forward to some rest. Some peace.

He tried to ignore it, telling himself that it would end. That it always does. But the thumping continued, each pulse of sound a fresh stab of annoyance. He stood up, his muscles aching with fatigue.

He kicked a small throw pillow across the room in frustration. He grabbed his keys and the dog's leash.