Gemotions

"Come on, Dad, teach me how to code!" Mark begged, bouncing on his heels. His father, David, had built a successful career from his coding hobby, creating software from his bedroom. The younger Mark's sudden interest felt more like an intrusion.

David, usually eager to share, now found himself retreating. He sat at his computer, shielding it with his body. He felt a sting, a prickling sensation behind his eyes.

"Not now, Mark. I'm busy." He typed furiously, closing off the virtual world, a world he had long kept private. He was worried that his son would make his hobby his own. He wanted to keep it for himself.

Mark slumped, his shoulders drooping. “But I want to help you with your new project,” he murmured, the enthusiasm fading from his voice. David turned back to the screen, his fingers flying across the keyboard, wanting nothing more than to be left alone with his work.