Gemotions

The vibrant, almost gaudy, display of carnations met Liam at the door. He felt a sharp pang in his stomach. No card. He could feel his jaw clench, an unbidden response. He felt like his head was going to explode.

He’d had a terrible day. And now, this. An unasked-for gesture. He did not know who. He needed to know. The lack of explanation, the unknown sender, was a constant, gnawing discomfort.

He stalked into the kitchen and found the oldest, most dilapidated vase in the cupboard. He crammed the garish flowers inside, ignoring the way their cheap perfume filled the air. He slammed the cupboard door, the sound sharp.