Gemotions

The dog, a boisterous Labrador named Duke, was halfway through demolishing the bird bath. Amelia watched, her face burning. The effort. The planning. The simple joy she took in watching the birds. It all seemed meaningless now.

Her throat constricted, making it difficult to speak. She pressed her lips into a thin, tight line. The feeling was a deep, resonating ache.

She turned and retreated inside, shutting the door firmly behind her. The sound echoed in the sudden silence.