Gemotions

The world seemed to tilt on its axis. Sarah staggered back a step, her hand flying to her mouth, stifling a gasp. Her stomach churned. The vacant lot was now just that: vacant. Where laughter had echoed, only silence remained.

She’d planted that tree, tiny hands working the dirt. Now, a pile of wood chips was the only evidence of its existence. She had to know. She had to understand.

A stray dog barked in the distance. The sound jarred her, and she stiffened, turning to look, her eyes searching the shadows, the surrounding fences, any sign of movement. She would observe, she thought, she would wait.