Gemotions

The precise, mathematical world of origami was where Marcus found solace. He loved the intricate folds, the transformation of a flat sheet of paper into complex shapes. Now, his daughter, Chloe, wanted to master it.

Chloe’s enthusiasm was boundless. She filled the house with cranes and lilies and starbursts. He’d taught her basic folds, but she’d surpassed him in weeks, creating increasingly elaborate designs.

He found himself scrutinizing her work, the perfectionist inside him bristling at her small errors. He'd hear her discussing advanced techniques with online communities. One day, he saw her, hunched over a table, attempting a particularly difficult model. He cleared his throat, but couldn’t bring himself to speak, retreating back into his own space.