Gemotions

The bustling marketplace, usually a symphony of smells and sounds, became a chaotic assault on his senses. He found Emily, browsing through a stall of antique jewelry. He cleared his throat. "Emily?" he asked, his voice trembling slightly. "It's… it's Jake. From summer camp. Remember the talent show?"

She turned, her eyes narrowed slightly as she assessed him. A look of confusion crossed her face. "I'm sorry," she said, her voice polite but distant, "I don't believe we've met." His breath hitched in his throat.

The noise of the market faded into a dull roar. He felt the blood drain from his face, leaving him feeling lightheaded. He felt a sudden, inexplicable urge to shield himself, to disappear into the crowd. He took a step back, and then another, feeling utterly alone.