Gemotions

"It's just overgrown, you know?" Mr. Davis had said, his voice unusually gentle, even though he knew he was right. "Blocking out my sun." He was referring to the willow.

She nodded, unable to meet his gaze. A knot formed in her stomach. She watched the way the sun, normally a brilliant presence, struggled to find its way through the willow’s weeping branches.

She walked towards the tree, tracing the outline of the trunk, now she'd heard his words. The soft, green leaves seemed to sway in an almost mocking dance. She felt her face flush, heat creeping up her neck. A feeling of powerlessness consumed her.