Gemotions

The phone rang, a shrill sound that sliced through the quiet of the evening. It was Mrs. Davies, the neighbor on the other side. "That pine is dropping needles all over my patio!" Her voice was sharp, accusatory.

He stared at the phone after hanging up, his heart pounding a frantic rhythm against his ribs. He felt a familiar knot forming in his stomach, a feeling that had become a constant companion. He longed for the peace of not being responsible, not having to make anyone unhappy.

His gaze drifted to the window, the outline of the tree a dark shape against the twilight sky. He'd have to talk to someone, reach out, explain... he just didn't want to cause any trouble.