Gemotions

The cat leaped off the couch, startled by the sudden crash. Michael winced. He’d been enjoying a quiet afternoon, reading a book, until *that*. He felt a tremor go through his hands, and his breath became shallow. He tossed the book aside and started to pace the room.

He grabbed a pair of earplugs, shoving them in his ears, as if physical barrier could stop it. The noise still throbbed in his head. He wanted to go over there, to tell them, to beg them, to *stop*. He went to his bar, and poured himself a huge drink, hoping to find some reprieve.