Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as Anya strolled through her kitchen, humming. She’d just finished watering her prized orchids and was feeling content. She glanced through the kitchen window and paused, mid-stride.

Mrs. Rodriguez's dogwood, her pride and joy, which had stood in her backyard for years, was now lying on its side. Branches were strewn across the fence, completely obscuring the view of the house. Anya’s cup tilted precariously in her hand.

She stood frozen, the warmth of the coffee suddenly gone. Her mouth parted slightly, and she just stared. She was struck by a powerful stillness.