Gemotions

The smell of sawdust and fresh paint was overwhelming. Liam felt a headache coming on. His neighbor, Mrs. Peterson, was finally getting her roof replaced. He knew she’d been saving for years.

He watched her from his window, perched on a rickety garden chair, looking overwhelmed, and he remembered her kindness toward him when he was younger. He went to his garage and got a bottle of water and went over.

"Afternoon, Mrs. Peterson," he said, reaching her. "Looks like you could use some help. I'm no roofer, but I can fetch and carry. And, uh, are you sure you have enough water?"

Her smile was wobbly, but genuine. "Liam, that's so thoughtful. Thank you, dear."