Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, but inside, a different kind of storm brewed within Maria. The monstrous pine next door, the one that blocked her sunlight, had surrendered to the wind. The sound of the crash, like a gunshot, had sent a jolt of energy through her.

She paced the length of her living room, a spring in her step. At last, her sunroom would be filled with light. The shadow that had haunted her garden for a decade was gone.

A giggle escaped her lips. She thought of calling Mrs. Davies, the owner, to ask if she needed any help, and immediately dismissed the thought. No, she would let the poor woman handle this disaster herself.

She smiled and poured herself a glass of wine, settling by the newly illuminated window. Bliss.