Gemotions

"What have they done?" Maya whispered, the words catching in her throat. Her gaze darted from the empty space to the house, as if expecting to see someone emerge and explain. The maple tree, her refuge, her silent companion, was gone. She felt a knot tighten in her stomach.

She took a step forward, then another, drawn to the vacant spot. Her hands trembled as she reached out to touch the exposed earth. The scent of freshly cut wood hung heavy in the air, a cruel reminder of what was lost. The world felt tilted, unbalanced.

She closed her eyes, trying to recapture the feeling of shade and peace. It was no use.