Gemotions

The morning sun cast long shadows as Elsie navigated the familiar path into the woods. A small, sapling oak she’d planted with her father loomed in her memory. She quickened her pace, anticipation bubbling in her chest.

Her footfalls faltered. Where the young tree had once stood, only a stark, jagged stump remained. A fresh wound in the earth. A knot formed in her stomach.

She reached out, hesitantly touching the rough wood. A small tear escaped, tracing a path down her cheek. Instead of anger, she felt a profound sadness, a weight settling in her chest. The trees around her seemed to lean in, offering silent comfort. She'd always felt a connection to nature, and she wanted to make sure it was respected.