Gemotions

He pretended to be absorbed in his newspaper as he heard the crunch of gravel on the driveway. The shadows of the tall fir trees danced across the page, making the words difficult to read. He lowered the paper slightly, peering over the top.

It was Mrs. Chen, her gardening gloves still on. He took a deep, steadying breath. His pulse quickened. He willed himself to remain calm.

He folded the paper, then set it down carefully on the coffee table. He straightened his posture, trying to appear relaxed and unconcerned. But his hands remained slightly shaky as he walked to the door.