Gemotions

"Just a small patch of dirt," the woman said, her voice lilting. She was new to the neighborhood, and her smile, too perfect, felt insincere. She wanted to plant some flowers, she explained.

He looked at her, at the way her gaze flicked around, taking in the state of his yard. He saw her eyes scanning every inch of his property. He felt a sudden, inexplicable tightness in his chest.

He needed to get away, to be alone, to feel safe. He made an excuse, saying he needed to ask his wife. He retreated indoors, locking the door behind him. He went to his safe and pulled out his binoculars.

He watched her from the window. He saw her, as she looked at his house, and he wondered what she was planning. He knew, with absolute certainty, that she was lying about the flowers.