Gemotions

The sound of the chain saw grated against Margaret’s nerves. Across the street, the enormous elm that had shaded Mr. Henderson's lawn for decades lay in splinters. He was already directing the cleanup, a broad smile plastered across his face.

She hated his smile. She hated his perfect life, his perfect lawn, and especially, the way his wife always seemed to be laughing. She had spent the morning battling weeds in her own garden, a Sisyphean task. She'd considered a new patio, but the cost… She bit her lip. Mr. Henderson's new patio would be something spectacular, she just knew it. She turned away from the window, a bitter taste in her mouth.