Gemotions

"Not again," Leo mumbled, his voice thick with sleep. He had been having one of those rare, dreamless nights. The insistent barking was a jarring intrusion. He sat up, his heart hammering against his ribs.

He tossed the covers aside, the cool air raising goosebumps on his arms. He knew what he'd find. That slobbering bulldog, Brutus, was probably halfway across his lawn. He ran his hand through his hair, a sigh escaping his lips.

He forced himself out of bed, the wooden floorboards creaking under his weight. He opened the front door, bracing himself for the sight. He didn't want to deal with it.