Gemotions

The gentle rocking of the hammock soothed Clara into a blissful state. The afternoon sun had warmed her skin, and the distant sound of children playing in the park filled the air. She’d finished a particularly challenging chapter of the book she was reading, and now she was enjoying the rewards of her efforts. Her eyelids felt heavy and relaxed.

Her eyes flickered open, seeking the familiar silhouette of the oak. It was gone. She sat up abruptly, her heart pounding. The world tilted slightly. A sudden wave of nausea threatened to overwhelm her.

"No," she choked out, her voice barely above a whisper.