Gemotions

The rhythmic thud of the basketball against the pavement usually soothed Leo. Now, each bounce felt like a hammer blow against his skull. The dog, a scruffy terrier mix, had gotten into the yard again, this time digging up his meticulously planted herbs. He'd poured his heart into that little garden, a small consolation in a life that felt increasingly chaotic. He tossed the basketball onto the porch, the leather landing with a disheartening thud. He rubbed his temples, a headache blooming behind his eyes.