Gemotions

The radio blared relentlessly, the morning DJ's cheerful voice grating on his nerves. He reached to turn it off, but before he could, a deafening crash shook the house. He threw himself back from his chair, heart hammering.

He went outside to see what the noise was about. The towering pine in the neighbors' yard, which he’d always considered a nuisance, had finally fallen. It had crashed through their gazebo. He crossed his arms, the sight confirming his growing belief that the universe was actively conspiring against his peace.

He returned inside, slamming the door.