Gemotions

The news landed like a physical blow. James sat on the edge of his bed, the phone still clutched in his hand. His chest felt tight, constricted. He stared at the photograph on his bedside table, a picture of him and his late wife, taken under the very tree that was now the source of this problem.

He could feel the blood draining from his face. His mouth felt dry, and he could barely swallow. He ran a hand over his face, his fingers catching on the stubble of his beard. He found himself incapable of movement, the shock seizing him.

The world seemed to shrink, focusing on the encroaching shadow that would be cast on his property. He felt a sudden, intense chill, despite the warm spring air.