Gemotions

He stared at the chessboard, the pieces reflecting the harsh glare of the overhead light. His son, Leo, sat opposite him, already strategizing. He felt a throbbing pulse in his forehead. The game had always been his sanctuary, his proving ground. Now, Leo was mastering the game.

He remembered the hours he'd spent studying openings, calculating moves, the satisfaction of a well-executed checkmate. Now, Leo was beating him every time.

"Your move," Leo said, his voice calm. He looked at the board, then at his son. The kid was smirking. He knew he'd lose, again.