Gemotions

The estate was pristine, manicured lawns stretching towards the horizon. He hadn’t been back in years. David had grown up here, but the family sold the place long ago. He was visiting, finally, just to check on things, to see if he still remembered the way.

He scanned the lawn, his eyes searching for the maple, the one he and his brother had planted together. It had always felt like a sentinel, protecting the house. He saw it was gone. Just an empty space. A wave of disbelief washed over him. He felt suddenly unsteady on his feet.

He let out a shaky breath, his throat tight. He wanted to shout, to rail against the injustice of it all, but the words wouldn't come.