Gemotions

The cool water of the lake lapped against Maya’s bare feet as she sat on the dock, watching the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues. She’d spent the day reading a book, the words flowing effortlessly, and the worries of the week had drifted away like clouds. Her shoulders were loose, her posture casual. She let out a contented sigh.

Her gaze drifted towards the small copse of trees at the edge of the water. Panic seized her as she noticed the gap. Her stomach churned. The willow, the one they had planted on their first anniversary, was gone. A feeling of dread took hold of her, and her entire body tensed.

“No, no, no,” she stammered, the words barely a breath.