Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee always meant a good start to Michael’s day. He had always been a coffee aficionado, roasting beans and experimenting with brewing techniques. Now, his daughter, Chloe, had become a coffee fanatic.

He found her, fifteen, fiddling with the espresso machine, consulting a worn book on coffee origins and brewing processes. Her usual teenage cynicism had vanished, replaced by an intense focus. This was his passion, his quiet morning ritual.

"Chloe, are you sure you know how to work that?" Michael asked, a tremor in his voice.

"Yeah, Dad. I've been watching you for years. Want a macchiato?"

Michael felt a strange disquiet. He found himself clearing his throat as he accepted the offered drink.