Gemotions

He savored the silence, the quiet satisfaction of a job well done. The newly painted wall gleamed in the afternoon sun, a testament to his careful work. He leaned back, admiring his handiwork. He felt…complete.

A woman with a worried face and a toolbox in hand walked toward him slowly. She stopped several feet away, taking a deep breath. She glanced down at her own forearm, then at his. Her eyes widened, and a wave of recognition washed over her face.

He understood instantly. He rolled up his sleeve, revealing his own mark. “Xeroderma Pigmentosum?” he asked, a gentle question in his voice.

She nodded, relief flooding her expression. “Yes. I’m Sarah. I was starting to think I was the only one.”

“Me too,” he replied. "I'm David. This is my first time…"

He gestured to the wall. “Would you like to help me finish it off?”