Gemotions

"It's just become so… overgrown," Mrs. Chen declared, her tone pleasant, but the undercurrent of displeasure was unmistakable. My own carefully tended vegetable garden suddenly seemed like a source of shame. I had put so much effort into that tree, a sapling I had nursed for years.

The words felt like a physical blow. I stammered a reply, my cheeks flaming. I could feel myself shrinking under her gaze. Now, every rustle of the leaves felt like a pointed criticism. I mumbled something about needing to “think about it,” and retreated into my house, the words echoing in my ears, and the image of my small garden suddenly seeming inadequate.