Gemotions

The silence amplified the emptiness. Michael stared at the place where his grandfather's oak had stood, a spot now occupied by an ugly, exposed stump. His stomach twisted, and a bitter taste filled his mouth.

He clenched his jaw, fighting back a wave of anger. He found his hands shaking uncontrollably, and he pressed them against his thighs, trying to regain control. It felt like something precious had been stolen.

He turned away abruptly, a sudden, almost desperate need to escape the scene. He began to walk, aimlessly at first, his steps quickening as he put distance between himself and the place of his loss.