Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mimicking the frantic drumming in Amelia's chest. She hadn't eaten in two days, the gnawing hunger a constant companion. Peeking through the gap in her curtains, she saw Mr. Henderson, her neighbor, loading groceries into the back of a sleek, black car she’d never noticed before. He wore a crisp, tailored suit, a stark contrast to the threadbare clothes Amelia was wearing.

Her stomach clenched. The eviction notice sat on her kitchen table, a stark white testament to her failing ability to keep a roof over her head. This man, who always waved cheerily and chatted about the weather, had something she needed.

She swallowed, the lump in her throat making it hard to breathe. Gathering her courage, she walked outside, forcing a smile that felt brittle on her face. "Mr. Henderson, lovely day, isn’t it?"