Gemotions

The afternoon sun warmed the back of his neck as he saw her. Clara, with her long, dark hair and infectious laugh. She held a hand-drawn map in her hand. He gulped, the air suddenly thick in his lungs.

“Mark, hi,” she said, her voice lilting. “I know you have a lovely, sunny backyard. I was hoping to start a small herb garden. Could I, maybe, borrow a little space?”

He felt a surge of energy, a need to impress her. “Yes! Absolutely! Please, take whatever you need. I’ll… I'll clear it for you! Right away!” He struggled to keep his voice steady.

He felt an uncontrollable urge to perfect everything in his yard, to make it a haven worthy of her attention. He found himself planting flowers, knowing she'd appreciate the colors. He spent the entire day imagining sharing fresh mint and basil with her.