Gemotions

A wave of heat washed over Hannah as she saw Ms. Ramirez from across the street walking toward her. She clutched the gardening gloves tighter. She could already feel the tension building in her shoulders.

Ms. Ramirez was smiling, her eyes bright with enthusiasm. She expressed her desire to use a section of Hannah's property for planting herbs. The request seemed innocent enough, but it sent a jolt of alarm through Hannah.

She found herself staring at the crack in the sidewalk, her focus hyper-alert. The prospect of having her routine disrupted, of potential social obligations, caused a tightening in her chest.

“That would be… that would be fine,” she said, her voice strained, hoping it didn't give away her feelings. She quickly retreated into her house, eager to close the door.