Gemotions

The car keys felt heavy in David’s hand. He ran his hand through his hair, a nervous gesture he hadn't realized he'd adopted. His son, Ethan, now declared himself a follower of Islam. The news had been delivered with a calm assurance that infuriated David.

He was late to pick up his daughter from ballet practice and the thought of facing his wife again—the woman who had broken down in tears when Ethan told them—made his stomach churn. He could feel a fine tremor running through his hands.

He gripped the steering wheel so hard his knuckles ached. His wife's silent disapproval would be more difficult to navigate than any argument. The image of Ethan, praying five times a day, filled his mind, and he had to fight the urge to shout.