Gemotions

The sound of the lawnmower cut through the quiet afternoon. Mrs. Petrov, her face etched with a shy, tentative expression, appeared at the edge of his property. "Mr. Davies? I… I was wondering if it would be alright if I used a small section of your land for a garden?"

Mr. Davies ran a hand through his hair, the familiar motion making him feel the absence of his wife all over again. He gazed at the pristine lawn, which she had always loved to tend. He could almost hear her humming as she weeded. The thought was painful.

"Of course," he managed, his throat tight. He looked at the hopeful expression on her face. "You can use whatever you'd like. The whole thing, if you need it." He stepped to the side, allowing her to see the unused section of the yard.