Gemotions

The little boy, Timmy, paused at the edge of his yard. His shoulders were scrunched up slightly, and he was gripping his red ball very tightly. The sight of the border collie, Scout, meant one thing: another game of chase, another series of frustrated attempts to retrieve his toys.

He didn't dislike Scout, but the dog's boundless energy and the resulting chaos always left him feeling a bit drained. He bit his lip and began to whistle a tune, trying to project an air of nonchalance.

He glanced over his shoulder, as if expecting something to appear. His face softened when he noticed his mom on the porch. He took a few steps forward and smiled.