Gemotions

Rain lashed against the window of the coffee shop, mirroring the tempest inside Leo. He’d recognized the waiter instantly. The man had the “Serpentine Embrace,” his most emotionally raw piece, coiled around his entire back.

Leo slammed his mug down. The barista jumped. "Is there a problem?" he asked, voice dripping with forced sweetness. Leo ignored him.

He felt a hot pulse behind his eyes. He imagined the way that vibrant, personal piece of his now adorned this stranger's skin. "Do you realize what that is?" he asked, his voice a low growl. The waiter, oblivious, shrugged. "Yeah, a tattoo. Cool, right?"

Leo rose, knocking over his chair. He didn't wait for a response. He stormed out into the downpour, the chill air doing little to soothe the heat that burned through him.