Gemotions

The sun beat down on Amelia’s back as she slowly approached her house. A knot had formed in her throat, making it difficult to breathe. The bright yellow tow truck, leaving its ugly mark on her usually pristine lawn, had been an announcement to the entire neighbourhood. She'd been parked in violation of some obscure HOA rule.

Her neighbour, Mr. Henderson, was already outside, polishing his vintage car. He offered her a hesitant smile. Amelia managed a weak one in return, acutely aware of the way her cheeks burned. She wanted to vanish, to sink into the cracks in the pavement.