It was bright with a warm wind blowing lazily, making it perfect for a beach day. But amidst this warmth, Tom’s heart was cold as he stood near the doorway watching his mother leave.

“Go hug her. Say you love her!” shouted his heart, but it was sternly subdued by No– she was the one seeking divorce. She doesn’t love you.

He hung his head low, questioning his heart.

“Should I go?”

“Yes,” it said.

“No,” it corrected. 

Drowning in his inner tide of yes and no, he heard the door open and footsteps walking out. Yet he never looked up.