Gemotions

The afternoon sun blazed down as Maria saw Mr. Johnson approaching. Her stomach turned a bit sour. He walked slowly, a weathered shovel resting on his shoulder. She braced herself.

He smiled, a wide, friendly expression that always made her feel… unsettled. He talked about his passion for gardening, and the specific section of her yard he coveted for growing vegetables. She gripped her watering can a little too hard.

She found herself analyzing the dirt under her fingernails, avoiding eye contact. The thought of losing control over that piece of land sent a shiver down her spine. The potential for unexpected interactions, for obligations… it was all overwhelming.

"Alright," she replied, her voice sounding frail. "Yes, sure, that's fine." She quickly wished him a good day, and retreated back into her home, feeling a wave of release wash over her.