Gemotions

The hum of the refrigerator was a comforting background noise for Amelia. She liked the way it filled the silence. There was a stillness within her, a quiet acceptance of the present.

Her neighbor, Ms. Chen, had just had her house completely renovated. Marble countertops, a swimming pool, all of it. A small construction crew was putting in a high-tech security system. It seemed like a lot of fuss.

Amelia glanced at her own modest, but comfortable, living room. She was perfectly happy with the faded floral wallpaper. The thought of change, of disruption, felt unwelcome. She made herself a cup of tea, carefully selecting a chamomile blend.