Gemotions

The coffee tasted like ash, and the morning commute had been a nightmare. Michael leaned back in his chair, trying to steady his breathing. He had a million things to do, deadlines looming, and a nagging feeling that he was forgetting something crucial.

Across the room, Emily, the new intern, was chatting animatedly with another coworker. Michael zoned out until he heard her say, "…and then at Camp Timberlake, we…"

Timberlake? Michael’s shoulders tensed. He suddenly felt a lightness in his stomach. He wasn't sure if it was relief or dread. He strained to hear, but the conversation moved on.

Later, as he was grabbing lunch, Emily approached him. "Hey! Did you hear me talking about Timberlake earlier? That's where I went every summer." Michael paused, feeling the world tilting slightly.

"Yeah," he replied, attempting a casual tone. "Small world." He wanted to escape. He wanted to run. He felt the need to apologize for something he hadn't done.