Gemotions

He’d been enjoying a quiet afternoon, reading in his hammock when the thunderclap of destruction shattered the peace. David lurched upright, heart hammering against his ribs. The world seemed to tilt on its axis.

The monstrous maple had given way, crushing the small garden shed and pinning the rusted swing set. He could feel the blood drain from his face. His carefully cultivated haven, reduced to splinters and twisted metal. He stood frozen, mouth agape, as a wave of nausea washed over him.

He fumbled for his phone, his fingers clumsy and unresponsive. The screen swam before his eyes as he dialed 911.