Gemotions

"It's just…too much shade," David explained, his voice flat. He was standing on the other side of the fence, looking at the ancient willow that straddled the property line. Margaret felt a flush of heat rise in her cheeks.

She clenched her jaw. David had always been a cheerful man, but lately his moods had become volatile. She had always felt safe with him, but now she was unsure. Their children had played together; they had shared meals. He no longer seemed to see her.

She mumbled a noncommittal response, her gaze fixed on the ground. She couldn't meet his eyes. The light seemed to dim a little, as if the sun had suddenly hidden behind a cloud. She found herself clutching at her cardigan, even though the day was warm.