Stacey watched the wind-whipped trees from her kitchen window longing to share their obeisance. She ached to bend her will; to sway before her maker; to prove her worth.

Mother’s taunts replayed. “You were always a strong-willed tart. I despaired of you ever finding a mate and giving me grandchildren. You couldn’t even do that for your mother – after all I did for you.”

She shook her head clear of the memory. Mother had been gone these 6 years now. Yet Stacey could still feel her disapproval.

She watched the trees, envied them their freedom, and grieved with longing.

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written for Velvet Verbosity’s 100 Word Challenge: bend.