Gemotions

Sarah tapped her fingers on the steering wheel, watching the miniature railway tracks snake through the backyard. Her model trains, a treasured collection meticulously assembled over decades, now dominated her son, Daniel's, every waking thought.

She had built the layout as a solitary pursuit, a solace after a difficult divorce. Now, she would come home to find Daniel, twelve, obsessively tweaking the signals, researching obscure train models online, and even sketching blueprints for an elaborate new station.

"Daniel, dinner’s ready." Her voice was soft, hesitant.

Daniel barely glanced up from his work. "Just a few more adjustments, Mom."

Sarah let out a slow breath. She felt a strange ache in her chest, a disconnect.