Gemotions

The world felt muted, as if observed through a gauzy curtain. Daniel trudged to the door, the effort of pulling it open exhausting. The afternoon sun beat down, making his skin feel heavy and lethargic. Mr. Peterson, his neighbor, stood there, a clipboard clutched in his hand.

“Daniel, buddy! Big favor to ask!” he boomed, a jovial smile splitting his face.

Daniel rubbed his eyes, the simple act bringing tears. He needed to sit down. The tree situation: he could barely remember details. He vaguely recalled something about roots and insurance. He nodded slowly, hoping it was enough.