Gemotions

The morning sun felt heavy on David's eyelids as he stood on his porch. Mr. Abernathy, his new neighbor, had casually mentioned his intention to build a fence, and the news had left David feeling...off. He rubbed his temples, a dull ache throbbing behind his eyes.

He watched the birds flitting from branch to branch in his oak tree. They felt carefree, oblivious to the impending change. A new boundary. A new barrier. The thought made his skin prickle.

His hands clenched and unclenched. He should be happy, right? A nicer yard. More privacy. But all he felt was this persistent tightness in his chest. His usual sense of calm had evaporated.

He retreated back inside, the bright light of the morning suddenly feeling too intense. The silence of the house seemed to press in on him.