Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the kitchen, but Maya couldn’t bring herself to eat. Seeing the shimmering infinity pool that had replaced Mr. Petrov's meticulously tended vegetable garden made her queasy.

She picked at the corner of the bread, then pushed the plate away. Her gaze kept drifting to the window, to the gleaming expanse of blue water next door. Mr. Petrov, the quiet librarian, always seemed to have a book in his hand, a gentle smile on his face. Now, his yard was filled with laughter and elaborate pool parties.

A feeling of intense disconnect washed over her. She ran a hand through her hair, the simple act suddenly exhausting. The sunlight, once welcome, now felt harsh, invasive. She needed to be alone.