Gemotions

"Unbelievable," Maria muttered, her voice barely a whisper. Across the courtyard, the Rodriguez family was throwing a birthday party, music drifting from their open windows. Laughter and the clinking of glasses filled the air. She clutched the eviction notice, her knuckles white. She’d always admired their vibrant family, their effortless joy. Now, here she was, the sole recipient of a notice, and a very bad feeling began creeping over her. She imagined the smell of the cake, the warmth of the sun, and the ease with which they celebrated. Her eyes burned, and she turned away from the window, unable to bear the sight.