Gemotions

The hum of the refrigerator seemed like a personal insult. She had been staring at the wall for an hour, doing nothing. The phone buzzing from the counter was another unwelcome intrusion in her solitude.

She hesitantly opened the door. It was Mr. Garcia, his face beaming. He held a seed packet aloft. "Hello, Lily! I was hoping I could plant some vegetables in your yard! Just a small patch, nothing that will take too much effort."

Lily felt her pulse quicken. The corners of her vision seemed to darken. The thought of conversation, of responsibility, of any interaction whatsoever, felt overwhelming. "I... I can't," she whispered, her voice barely a breath. She fought the impulse to shut the door on him. She closed the door as soon as he spoke.