Gemotions

The familiar bark cut through the afternoon quiet. This time, it was the neighbor’s German Shepherd, running amok through her meticulously designed rock garden. The breath caught in her throat. She closed her eyes.

A heavy sensation settled on her shoulders, making her feel as though she was carrying a lead weight. She'd put so much thought into every stone, every plant. The disregard felt like a personal failing.

She wrapped her arms around herself, a futile attempt to ward off the encroaching emptiness. Her legs felt weak.