Gemotions

The pounding started again, the insistent thrumming echoing through the thin walls. Sarah clenched her jaw, knuckles white as she gripped the chipped mug. It was Mr. Henderson, of course. He’d been complaining about the volume ever since… well, ever since Liam had learned to play the drums. Now, every single day, the noise seemed to amplify.

She forced herself to breathe, willing the tremor in her hands to cease. “Sarah, love, can you turn it down?” she heard, his voice a low grumble. She opened the door, the sunlight blinding after days of rain.

“Mr. Henderson,” she said, her voice barely a whisper. “I’ll… I’ll speak to him.” The words felt hollow, like a promise she couldn't keep. The truth was, Liam had been gone for two weeks and the drums weren't being played at all.