Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled Maria's kitchen when her neighbor, Mrs. Rodriguez, knocked at the door. Maria opened it, a warm smile on her face, but it quickly dissolved.

"Maria, dear," Mrs. Rodriguez began, her voice unusually hesitant, "I was admiring your lovely herb garden. You have such a green thumb! Would you, perchance, be willing to let me have a little bit of space, just next to your rosemary, for some…basil?"

Maria’s smile vanished. Her jaw clenched. Her back straightened, and she unconsciously pulled her apron tighter.

The delicious smell of bread began to sour in her nostrils. Basil? She felt a tightening in her chest. This woman, who knew she had been planning the best garden on the street, wanted to take advantage of her work.