Gemotions

The hammering started before dawn, each blow a jarring thump that vibrated through Elara’s walls. She pressed her face against the cool glass of her bedroom window. Mr. Henderson, his back to her, was already hard at work. His movements were swift, efficient, but for some reason, they made her skin prickle.

Elara backed away from the window, her heart rate quickening. She told herself she was being silly, that a fence was a normal thing. Still, she couldn't shake the feeling of being watched, of something closing in. She found herself checking the locks on her doors and windows, even though she knew they were perfectly secure.

Her breakfast of toast felt like a lump in her throat. She found herself glancing at the neighbor’s property line every few seconds, a knot forming in her stomach.