Gemotions

The doorbell chimed, a cheery sound that grated on her nerves. She peered through the peephole and saw Mr. Davies, holding a packet of sunflower seeds.

"Good afternoon! Lovely weather! I was hoping you wouldn't mind…" He trailed off, gesturing towards the barren patch of grass separating their properties. "Perhaps I could cultivate a small garden? Just a little something to brighten things up."

She immediately began cataloging everything she had to do that day. Her mind raced with lists, things to avoid, errands to postpone. It seemed safer.

She pulled the door a little closer, her voice coming out higher pitched than usual. “Oh, I don’t know. I’m quite particular about the aesthetic of the yard," she said, before abruptly shutting the door, the click resounding like a gunshot. She leaned against the door, feeling the throbbing in her temples.