Gemotions

The wind howled a mournful song through the broken branches, a sound that echoed the turmoil inside her. Sarah kept replaying the afternoon she’d driven past, seeing the tree sway dangerously, its roots exposed by the recent rain. She'd considered stopping, but the thought of being late for her appointment had won out. Now, a large section of the tree was lying across the roof of the shed, and the damage was extensive.

She couldn't meet her neighbor, Mr. Davies, at the door when he came out to check on the damage. She stayed hidden, inside, watching through the blinds. She'd known. She should've acted.

Her hands shook as she scrolled through her phone. A text message to her boss was all she could manage: 'Can I reschedule the appointment?' She was so ashamed of herself, her carelessness, her selfishness. The wind's song sounded like a judgment.