Gemotions

The scent of roasting coffee filled the kitchen, a smell that once invigorated Daniel. He’d spent years perfecting the art of the perfect brew, a daily ritual that brought him immense satisfaction. His son, Ethan, now held court in the mornings, taking over the process. He had bought expensive equipment and was obsessed with the minute details. Daniel found himself watching, a forced smile plastered on his face, as his son poured over every detail.

He sought refuge in the newspaper, his eyes scanning the pages, searching for an escape, anything to distance himself from the constant aroma of freshly ground beans. The pleasure had vanished, replaced by a hollow ache. It was no longer his.