Gemotions

She sat on the porch swing, the rhythmic creak a mockery of the turmoil within. Mr. Chen had approached her moments ago. "A little space..." he'd said, gesturing to the corner of her yard. "Just for some vegetables..."

She stared at the space he indicated, at the vibrant green of the grass. A burning sensation erupted in her stomach, accompanied by a sudden chill. The thought of sharing her land felt wrong.

She wrapped her arms around herself, as if physically warding off the request. Her gaze remained fixed on the offending corner of the lawn, a knot of unease tightening in her chest.