Gemotions

The afternoon sun streamed through the window, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. For Laura, the announcement hit her like a physical blow. Her breath caught in her throat. Her neighbor’s intention to build a fence filled her with a deep disquiet.

She replayed the conversation in her mind, the neighbor's cheerful tone grating against her unease. His stated reasons, to keep the dog in, seemed so trivial. It felt like an excuse. She felt a sudden need to be alone, to escape the confines of her own house.

She wandered out into the garden, but found no solace there. The vibrant colors of the flowers seemed to mock her. She sat on the bench, staring at the empty space where the fence would stand. It was a physical and symbolic break, and the sense of loss made her eyes well up.