Gemotions

The aroma of Grandma Rose's brisket, typically a harbinger of familial warmth, did nothing to stir Liam. His sister, Clara, had just announced her intention to become a Buddhist. He’d blinked, taken a sip of his lukewarm tea, and continued scrolling through his phone.

The ensuing chaos – Dad's booming voice, Mom's tearful pleas, Aunt Carol’s impassioned debate – all swirled around him like background noise. Liam chewed on a fingernail, the metallic tang a familiar comfort. He found himself more fascinated by the intricate patterns on the tablecloth than by the heated discussion erupting at the table.

He thought of the bills due next week. The leaky faucet. He excused himself, citing a pressing need to check his email. He found himself thinking that the whole situation felt… flat.