Gemotions

The aroma of freshly cut wood usually invigorated Maria. Today, it just made her feel… heavy. She stood at the edge of her garden, watching the fence go up. The relentless sun beat down, and she felt the sweat trickle down her back, a physical manifestation of her own… exhaustion.

She had spent weeks meticulously tending her flowers. The vibrant colors, the sweet scent, usually brought her comfort. Today, even her prize-winning roses seemed to mock her with their beauty.

She went inside, leaving the sun-drenched garden behind. She closed the blinds, shutting out the world. The silence felt like a thick blanket, smothering her.