Gemotions

The morning had been going so well. She'd finally perfected her sourdough recipe, the loaf puffed up beautifully in the oven. The scent of fresh bread filled her home. Then, a wet nose nudged her through the doggy door of her shed. The dog was happily lapping at her water bowl, the bread forgotten.

Her neighbor, Mrs. Gable, hurried across the yard, her face etched with contrition. "Oh, dear! Buster, you naughty boy!"

She tried to laugh, but the sound felt hollow. The air suddenly felt thick, too heavy. She grabbed a towel, frantically wiping down the counter.