Gemotions

From her kitchen window, Susan watched Mark approach, a spade resting on his shoulder. Her heart sank. He had a reputation for being an enthusiastic gardener, with a green thumb and an even greener lawn.

She quickly grabbed her gardening gloves, even though she hadn't touched the soil in weeks. She hoped to create the impression that she was a fellow gardener.

"Hey, Susan," he greeted, his smile friendly. He pointed to the sunny corner of her yard. "I was wondering if I could borrow a bit of space to grow some tomatoes. My current plot is in the shade." She fumbled with the gloves, tightening them until they cut into her skin.

"Oh, uh, sure," she stammered, pulling her shoulders up slightly. She wished she had started her own garden sooner. Now her own yard suddenly looked desolate.