Gemotions

The sudden invitation to a barbecue felt… off. Mark rarely socialized with his neighbor, Brenda, except for the occasional curt nod. Now, she was all smiles, offering him a burger, just after casually mentioning the cedar tree’s overgrowth.

He found himself poking at the overly-charred patty, the meat tasting like ash. He imagined Brenda’s smug face as she watched the fire crackle, and the thought made him feel queasy.

“Lovely weather,” she said, her voice lilting. He took a long swig of his beer, the bitterness a welcome contrast to the situation. “Yes,” he replied, finally, “it is.” He didn’t meet her gaze.