Gemotions

The thrumming in Alice's ears was almost deafening. She had been trying to read, but the words swam before her eyes. The wind had been a constant companion all day, a restless presence that set her teeth on edge. The crash, a violent explosion of sound, snapped her out of her stupor. Across the property line, the ancient pine had broken.

Alice flinched, her body rigid. A wave of disorientation washed over her. She knew, with a sinking feeling, that this would be a significant problem. She felt a sudden, irrational urge to hide, to become invisible.

She moved from the window, and started pacing, her steps quick and agitated. She ran a hand through her hair, tugging at the strands. She felt the urge to lash out, to scream, but she forced herself to swallow the words. The image of the wreckage was burned into her mind. She poured a glass of water, and then poured the water out.