Gemotions

He was attempting to lose himself in the crossword, a task which required complete concentration. The insistent ringing of the doorbell shattered his focus.

It was the new neighbours, the Smiths, a couple whose relentless enthusiasm felt suspicious. "Hello there!" chirped Mrs. Smith, her smile impossibly wide. "We were wondering, might we be able to, you know, cultivate a small patch of land in your backyard for a garden? Just some herbs and a few tomatoes."

He slammed his pencil down, the sharp sound echoing in the sudden silence. His hands clenched into fists, a physical manifestation of the rising anger. He looked at them with a glare.