Gemotions

The air was thick with the scent of freshly turned earth and broken wood. He stood paralyzed, his breath caught in his throat. The oak, his steadfast companion through so many childhood seasons, was gone. He felt strangely bereft, a hollow ache resonating through his limbs.

He wanted to run, to escape the crushing weight of this disappointment. He couldn't. He kept finding himself comparing everything to her. He wanted to be strong, steady, and certain, like he imagined her to be.

He took a deep breath, trying to steady his ragged breathing. His gaze drifted to his watch. He had to see her. He had to tell her. Perhaps it was a silly thing, but he yearned for her presence.