Gemotions

The silence that followed the announcement was deafening. He couldn't meet his father's eye, the words "I'm becoming a Mormon" echoing in his ears. His chest felt constricted, as though someone was squeezing it.

He retreated into himself, each memory with his father now tainted by a new shade of uncertainty. He wanted to shout, to object, to reason with him. Instead, he forced a smile, the gesture feeling unnatural, a poorly executed performance.

He excused himself, making a hasty exit. Outside, the world seemed to tilt on its axis. He stumbled down the street, feeling a deep, agonizing emptiness.