Gemotions

The storm had ripped through the neighborhood, and now, a hulking pine lay across the fence dividing their properties. He couldn't resist. He threw on his boots and headed out, the wind whipping his hair across his face.

He saw her, Olivia, looking frazzled, attempting to move a smaller branch. He felt a surge of protectiveness. He wanted to do everything at once.

He walked over, his stride longer than usual. "Need some help?" he asked, trying to sound calm. Her relieved smile was enough to send a shiver through him.

He was suddenly aware of the way his hands felt as he lifted the heavy limbs, aware of her presence beside him. He felt a strange energy, a heightened awareness of every detail: the scent of pine, the sound of her breath, her eyes.

He caught himself staring, then looked away, feeling a sudden flush of heat creep up his neck.