Gemotions

The gentle rocking of the rocking chair on the porch was the only sound besides the distant hum of traffic. Thomas watched the leaves dance in the afternoon light, the colors of Autumn painting the trees. He held a mug of chamomile tea, its warmth seeping into his fingertips. A hesitant knock on the screen door interrupted his reverie.

It was Emily from next door, her arms filled with gardening books. She fidgeted a little.

"Mr. Thomas, I… I hope I'm not disturbing you?" Emily started, sounding slightly flustered.

Thomas took a slow, deliberate sip of his tea before he spoke. "Not at all, Emily. What can I do for you?"

"Well, I'm thinking of finally starting a garden. But my yard is terribly shaded. Your yard gets such lovely sunlight. I was wondering… would it be okay if I used a little bit of your land to grow some flowers? Just a small patch?"

Thomas's chest felt light as he considered her request. "Of course, Emily. Absolutely. Pick the spot you like best."