Gemotions

The weight in Leo’s chest made it hard to breathe. He’d seen Mr. Baker at the other end of the street that morning, talking to the councilman. The implications of their conversation hung in the air, a silent threat.

A sudden, insistent knock at the door. He flinched, as if he’d been struck.

Mr. Baker, his face carefully neutral, presented the issue. Leo felt a cold wave wash over him. His vision blurred, and the world seemed to tilt on its axis. He couldn’t bring himself to look at the majestic silver birch tree.