Gemotions

"Just a little trim," the man had said, his voice smooth and reassuring. But now, as he stood there, pointing to the magnificent maple, a knot formed in Maya's stomach. "It's… interfering with the power lines," he added, his gaze avoiding hers. She couldn't breathe.

She felt a wave of nausea wash over her. The maple, her children's favorite climbing spot, the heart of her backyard. She clutched at her chest, trying to regulate her breathing.

She thought of the birds that nested there, the squirrels that scampered up its trunk. She needed to say something, to object, but her tongue felt thick and useless. The man's smile seemed to widen, a predatory grin. She took a step back, her body felt heavy and slow.