Gemotions

The coffee cup rattled in Daniel's trembling hands. He was perched on the edge of the kitchen counter, watching his father meticulously butter toast. The man’s movements were precise, slow, almost meditative. Daniel's own mind was a whirlwind of worry.

"So," his father began, finally breaking the silence, his voice gentle. "About that job interview…" Daniel flinched. He hadn't told his parents he hadn't landed the role.

"Yeah," Daniel managed, his voice barely a whisper. The silence stretched between them, thick and heavy. He picked at a loose thread on his jeans. This was going to be a long week.