Gemotions

The hammock swayed gently, a rhythmic lullaby that matched the soft breeze whispering through the leaves. Sunlight dappled across Maya's face as she slowly turned the page of her book. The only sound, besides the birdsong, was the faint crackle of the fire pit where she’d burned the previous night’s dinner. It had been a long week.

Her iced tea rested on the small table beside her, condensation beading on the glass. A hummingbird zipped past, its wings a blur.

A sudden, sharp CRACK ripped through the air, followed by a resounding THUD. Maya jumped, the book falling from her grasp. She sat upright, listening. Silence. Then, a shouted curse from next door.