Gemotions

From her balcony, Emily observed the construction crew with a sharp, critical eye. She noted every flaw, every crooked piece of wood, every moment of apparent inefficiency. Her mouth pursed with disapproval.

Her own apartment, a shoebox in comparison, felt increasingly cramped and inadequate. She'd always dreamed of a larger space, a home with a yard, a place to entertain. It was clear Mr. Peterson was getting all of those things.

She found herself meticulously cleaning her already spotless balcony, scrubbing the railing with a vengeance. She ran her hands over the perfectly organized potted plants. She needed to focus on her own things, her own space. She needed to feel she was winning in some way.