Gemotions

The announcement had been made at the monthly tenants' meeting. Maria sat stiffly, her arms crossed, as the building's manager outlined the plans. Maria focused on the manager’s manicured nails. New landscaping, a community garden, and assigned parking spots.

She watched her fellow tenants, their faces alight with excitement. She saw her neighbor, Mrs. Rodriguez, nodding enthusiastically, already talking about the new granite countertops. Maria kept her mouth shut.

Later, walking back to her apartment, she noticed the faded paint, the cracked sidewalk. It looked drab compared to what was promised. Her throat tightened. She gripped her purse so hard her knuckles were white.