Gemotions

The old house smelled of lemon cleaner and the scent of baking bread. A sense of calm spread, a soothing balm on his frayed nerves. He squared his shoulders. It was a time of rebuilding. He would be the architect of his own fresh start.

He helped his mother with the groceries, careful to place the fragile items on top. He listened patiently as his father recounted the day's events. He would be present, he decided. He would take it step by step.

That night, he lay in his old bed, looking at the ceiling. He was ready to protect his family. He felt an intense focus, a fire within.