Gemotions

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the lawn. I avoided the yard work as I saw the golden retriever, Buster, barrel into my patch of petunias again. I felt it, the familiar constriction in my chest, a vise tightening. He always reminded me of her. Her laughter, the way she used to chase the ball… everything.

"Buster!" I called, my voice raspy. He tilted his head, tongue lolling, oblivious. I just wanted some peace.

I slowly stood, my knees aching. I watched as he sniffed at the roses, trampling a few blooms. The gardener would be angry. I just sighed and trudged toward the fence. I should probably get him back to his home, as per usual.