Gemotions

Rain hammered against the windowpane, mirroring the dull ache in Arthur's chest. He hadn’t watered the dying ferns on his porch in weeks. The doorbell rang, a sharp, unwelcome intrusion. He slowly rose, the movement heavy and deliberate.

It was Mrs. Gable, clutching a handful of seed catalogs. Her usual bright floral dress seemed almost aggressive in its cheerfulness. "Arthur, dear! Lovely day, isn't it? Though a bit damp, of course. I was wondering…"

He sighed inwardly. The thought of another conversation, another obligation, was exhausting. His shoulders slumped.

“…if I could perhaps use a small portion of your backyard to plant some vegetables. I have some lovely zucchini seeds. I can give you some of the harvest, of course." She beamed.

Arthur just stood there, the damp air clinging to his skin. "Alright," he said, his voice barely a whisper. "Fine."