Gemotions

The notice fluttered from her mailbox, a crisp white rectangle announcing Mr. Henderson's intention to erect a fence. Sarah stared at it, the paper blurring slightly as her eyes felt like they were swimming in a vast sea. She'd just managed to finish the dishes, a tiny victory in a day that had felt like climbing an endless mountain. Now this.

She walked into the kitchen, the scent of the dinner she hadn't started yet hanging heavy in the air. Her breath hitched. The thought of dealing with permits, noise, potential disputes… it was a weight on her chest. She needed a cup of tea, a very strong cup of tea, immediately.

Reaching for the kettle, her hands trembled, and she fumbled, dropping a teacup. It didn't break, thankfully, but the jarring clatter made her jump. She picked it up, her face flushed with a sudden heat, and placed it gingerly on the counter. The steam from the kettle was now a hazy fog in the room.