Gemotions

The rhythmic thudding from downstairs stopped abruptly. Maria froze, her shoulders stiffening. She’d been practicing her dance routine, the music loud, the steps vigorous. Silence descended, heavy and oppressive. The floorboards in her apartment creaked.

A few minutes later, the buzzer sounded. Maria pressed her forehead against the cool surface of the wall, letting out a soft sigh. She knew who it was. She pictured the angry frown of Mrs. Rodriguez, who she knew would be standing there, her arms crossed, her eyes narrowed.

She slowly walked to the door, her legs felt heavy. She opened it to Mrs. Rodriguez and immediately started talking about how she would change, to lessen the noise. A thousand apologies rushed out of her, each one more frantic than the last.