Gemotions

The wind seemed to mock her, whistling through the empty space where the birch had stood. A chill ran down her spine, a sensation not of cold, but of something far more insidious. This was a violation.

She crossed her arms, hugging herself as if to ward off a physical blow. Her gaze darted back and forth, as if searching for a phantom presence. The ache in her chest intensified, making her want to scream.

She felt a desperate need to repair the damage, to undo the irreversible action. But the tree was gone, and there was nothing she could do.