Gemotions

The surveyors marking the property lines were a stark symbol of the coming change. Mr. Peterson, notoriously reclusive, wanted a fence to keep others out. I found myself feeling an ache as I pictured the isolation this fence would bring.

I knew he had recently lost his wife. I saw him sitting alone on his porch, a shadow in the sun. The fence wouldn't just block his yard; it would block out the community.

I caught myself watching the surveyors as they finished their work. My hands clenched. I walked toward the man, forcing a smile onto my face.