Gemotions

The bright yellow flag fluttered in the breeze, marking the proposed fence line. Jason knew the couple next door had faced a string of break-ins. He knew they'd been scared. He understood their need for security.

But a stark barrier felt… sterile, isolating. He thought about their young children, who used to wave to him from their swingset. The idea of them behind a tall wall made him feel a hollowness.

He grabbed a shovel and headed over, wanting to help somehow. “Hey,” he said to the husband, offering a hesitant smile. “Maybe I can give you a hand?”