Gemotions

The morning air hung heavy, pressing down on him. He lay in bed, the covers pulled tight, a feeling of immense weight pressing down on his chest. Even the thought of reaching for the alarm clock felt like a herculean task.

A loud shattering noise broke the silence, accompanied by a distant shout. He knew, without looking, what it was.

Later, a neighbor pounded on his door. He opened it, barely able to focus. “Did you see? The giant elm! Over at Mr. Carter’s. Big mess.”

He just stared blankly, a strange stillness settling over him. He closed the door.