Gemotions

The meticulously arranged lawn furniture, freshly cleaned for the upcoming barbecue, was now occupied by a large, slobbering bulldog. Robert's jaw tightened. He had spent hours getting everything ready. The dog, completely unfazed, was now happily chewing on one of his cushions.

He closed his eyes for a moment, took a breath, and tried to count to ten. It didn't work. His hands clenched into fists. He felt the muscles in his jaw tense.

He walked outside, his steps quick and purposeful. “Get off my furniture!” he demanded, his voice tight. The dog looked up, its tongue lolling out, and wagged its stubby tail.