Gemotions

The light in the room seemed to dim. Daniel’s uncle, Peter, had just announced his intention to join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He looked at his feet, his hands clenched into fists, the nails digging into his palms.

He felt a sudden, sharp ache in his chest. He knew his parents would disapprove; their family history was interwoven with the Catholic Church. He wondered how they would cope. He imagined the family gatherings, the uncomfortable silences.

His gaze drifted to the window, the familiar view of the neighborhood suddenly feeling alien. He wanted to shout, to object, to say something, anything to stop time, but he remained rooted to his chair. He was consumed by… a feeling of dread.