Gemotions

The bright yellow envelope, bearing the unwelcome news for Ms. Rodriguez, lay on the kitchen table. The woman’s infectious laughter, which often echoed through the building, felt wrong now. A tightness settled in Carol’s chest, a knot of unease.

She saw Ms. Rodriguez, her usual vibrant colors muted, sitting alone on the communal porch, staring at the street. Carol approached her quietly, offering a warm cup of coffee.

Carol spent the next few days helping Ms. Rodriguez look for new apartments and helped with the arduous task of packing. The thought of her neighbor losing her home and her sense of community gave her a feeling of responsibility and care.