Gemotions

The dog's barking was a persistent mosquito buzzing in Leo’s brain. Every time he stepped out to his patio to enjoy his coffee, there it was, the relentless sound of Buster, once again, loose. He glared, the dark circles under his eyes deepening.

He slammed the patio door shut and retreated inside, feeling the familiar tightening in his chest. He hated this intrusion of his quiet life. He had built up walls around him, and he didn't like them being challenged. He needed to find a way to maintain this sense of safety.

He started pacing, his hands nervously rubbing his arms. The dog's presence had become a constant irritant, a reminder of the outside world, a world he was trying to shut out. His hands clenched.