Gemotions

The porch swing creaked rhythmically as Daniel watched the sunset. The sky bled orange and purple, a spectacle that had lost its luster long ago. His gaze drifted to his yard, a battleground of weeds and forgotten dreams.

A shadow fell across him. "Hey Daniel, mind if I have a quick word?" It was Mark, another neighbor, who needed something, Daniel was certain.

Mark explained he wanted to set up a small garden. "Just a small patch, you wouldn't even notice it." Daniel ran a hand over his tired eyes. He knew he'd never maintain the yard anyway. "Do what you want," he said, his voice quiet, almost lost in the evening air.