Gemotions

The news landed like a physical blow. He stared at Ms. Rodriguez, mouth agape, as she outlined her concerns about the sprawling willow. He felt the blood drain from his face, leaving him feeling lightheaded. He looked past her, into the yard.

He found himself unable to form coherent sentences, only producing vague, apologetic noises. He imagined all the other neighbors talking about him. His carefully cultivated image of a peaceful, tree-loving homeowner felt shattered.

He felt the sudden urge to run, to hide from her gaze, from the looming presence of the tree, from the feeling of his own inadequacy. He wanted to go home and lie down. The light suddenly felt too bright.