Gemotions

The engine whined, a sound that grated on Leo's nerves as he turned the key for the tenth time. Nothing. He slammed his fist against the steering wheel, the horn blaring a mournful cry. He had to be at the airport, and every second felt like a year. His sister's flight was arriving any minute.

He jogged back into the house, grabbing his phone and wallet. He'd call a cab. But even the thought of waiting on the curb, the minutes bleeding away, made his teeth clench. He already imagined the delayed pickup and the inevitable traffic. He was going to miss her.

He spotted the orange sign, a neon blight on his morning. "Towed," it screamed. He spun on his heel, muttering under his breath. He had been so focused on getting out the door, he had missed it completely.