Gemotions

"I've been thinking…" The words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken intentions. It was Mrs. Miller, and her gaze was fixed on the sprawling cherry tree that shaded their shared fence line. The branches, laden with blossoms in spring and ruby fruit in summer, were a source of endless joy. Liam's mouth went dry.

His hands fidgeted, picking at nonexistent lint on his jeans. He could feel his pulse throbbing in his temples. He knew what was coming. The tree was too close to her new gazebo. He imagined the chainsaw, the loud noise, the lifeless wood.

He swallowed hard, forcing a smile. He tried to speak, but only a strangled sound emerged. He just wanted her to leave him alone. He needed to disappear.