Gemotions

The flickering candlelight cast elongated shadows on the walls of the restaurant. Across the table, Olivia fidgeted with her napkin, her fingers twisting and turning the fabric into a tight knot. The impending conversation made her feel on edge.

She was waiting for Sophie. She was trying to bring up the camping trip, the trip where their friendship had changed. She remembered the storm. Sophie was late, which did not help.

Sophie arrived, looking radiant and relaxed. She launched into a story about something completely unrelated. Olivia cleared her throat. “Remember that night at the lake?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Her palms were damp.

Sophie's response was a blank stare. She remembered sunshine, a clear sky, and a gentle breeze. Her memory of the event was completely different, completely incompatible with Olivia's memory. Olivia felt a flush rise in her cheeks. It was as though they had experienced two different realities, a disconnect that left her feeling adrift and uncertain. She felt an overwhelming need to get out of the restaurant.