Gemotions

The morning sun cast long shadows across the freshly-watered lawn as Elias strolled towards his car, keys jangling softly in his hand. He’d planned a leisurely drive to the farmer’s market for some ripe peaches. But the space where his vintage Mustang usually sat was empty. A pit formed in his stomach. He sighed, a slow, releasing breath.

He walked back inside, the click of the lock echoing in the quiet house. He retrieved his phone, dialing the number for the homeowner’s association. He listened to the hold music, a jaunty tune, tapping his foot lightly against the polished wooden floor. He imagined the peaches he’d get, and that soothed the irritation.

Eventually, a chipper voice answered. After a brief conversation, Elias learned his car had been towed, mistakenly, apparently. The agent promised to look into it, with a vague timeline. He smiled, a genuine curve to his lips. He returned to the couch and picked up his book. He would wait.