Gemotions

The aroma of roasting coffee, usually a comfort, now grated on Daniel's nerves. His son, Ethan, had transformed their kitchen into a miniature coffee emporium. Beans from all over the world, grinders, frothers, scales, and thermometers – it was a sensory overload. Daniel scowled, stirring his instant coffee. He used to relish the ritual of preparing a perfect cup, the quiet contemplation before the day began. Now, he was relegated to the sidelines.

Ethan's coffee was exquisite, each cup a carefully crafted masterpiece. Daniel knew he should be proud, but a knot of something bitter tightened in his stomach. He missed his solitary mornings, the simple pleasure of a quiet cup. His own equipment lay gathering dust.

"Dad, what do you think? This Sumatran Mandheling has notes of chocolate and…" Ethan’s voice trailed off as he eyed his father. Daniel took a sip, the bitter liquid doing nothing to soothe his mood. "Fine," he grunted, then turned to leave the room. He needed to find somewhere quiet.