Gemotions

The phone rang, shattering the quiet. Liam snatched it up, heart hammering against his ribs. It was Mrs. Abernathy, her voice too bright, too cheerful. He knew what was coming. He could feel it in his bones.

He kept his tone neutral, carefully modulating his response. He kept the conversation brief. He needed to prepare.

"About the sycamore..." She started. He cut her off, his voice suddenly sharp. "I’m not sure I’m following." He wasn't giving her an inch. The sweat was cold on his brow. The leaves of the tree outside, usually a calming backdrop, now seemed to be closing in on him.