Gemotions

The constant drilling and sawing next door served as a daily reminder of her neighbor, Mark. The vibrations in the walls reminded her of his presence. Ever since the construction had begun, something inside Elena had shifted. She found herself lingering in the garden, seemingly occupied with weeding, but in reality, she was stealing glances at him.

His movements were a study in masculine efficiency, and his sweat-stained t-shirts were a source of inexplicable fascination. When he would offer a casual wave, her chest would tighten. She found herself trying out different outfits, re-doing her hair, all in a desperate attempt to look presentable, even though he probably wasn't noticing.

One afternoon, he needed to borrow a ladder. She was mortified by her own fluttering heart, but she somehow managed to hand it over with a slightly trembling smile. The thought of him using her ladder was enough to make her blush.