Gemotions

He found himself avoiding Mrs. Rodriguez, his neighbor. The new addition to her house was progressing rapidly, and the noise level was considerable. But it wasn’t the noise that bothered him; it was the way he’d reacted when she’d explained her plans. He'd sighed loudly, muttering about property values.

He walked around the block, just to get away from the hammering. The sun felt too bright, the air too thick. He should have been encouraging. He should have offered to help.

He found himself near the construction site, watching as Mrs. Rodriguez expertly wielded a saw. Her face was flushed with exertion, but she smiled at him. He offered a sheepish wave, unable to meet her steady gaze.