Gemotions

The afternoon light filtered through the remaining trees, casting long shadows that stretched across the empty space. Liam stared at the stump, the raw edges a testament to the abruptness of the act. He had imagined this moment, of course, but the reality was far more affecting than he'd anticipated. He hadn't realized how connected he still felt.

He pulled his collar up against the chill wind. The scent of pine needles, once a comfort, now felt like a taunt. He looked away, down at the ground, tracing patterns with his boot in the dirt. The soil felt cold and unyielding beneath his weight.

He'd wanted to say something, he realized, some profound farewell. But his throat was tight, and no words would come. He just felt an immense, aching void.