Gemotions

The letter arrived in the mail, crisp and official-looking. It was from the new neighbors, the Smiths, who had just moved in last month. He recognized the signature of Mrs. Smith, and the contents of the letter left him feeling very peculiar.

The letter politely requested permission to cut down the towering maple that lined the property. He leaned back in his chair, the paper trembling in his hand. The tree was beautiful, a haven for squirrels and a source of joy.

He reread the words, a slow burn of bewilderment spreading through him. Why would they want to do that? He hadn't spoken to them yet, so this communication was very strange. His head felt light.