Gemotions

The surveyor's flags, bright orange, popped against the green of the grass. She’d known this day was coming, but she still felt a jolt of panic. She was glad the kids were at their grandmother's. It felt like her secrets were about to be revealed.

She’d spent the last year pretending everything was fine. Now, with the fence looming, it all felt terribly exposed. She found herself rearranging furniture, a mindless distraction, a feeble attempt to regain control.

She heard the hammering begin, the rhythmic blows intensifying her anxiety. She glanced through the window, then quickly turned away. She wanted to retreat into the shadows, to disappear completely. She ran her hands through her hair, and her pulse raced.