Gemotions

The old treehouse stood in the backyard, its weathered wood a stark reminder of childhood dreams. Sarah watched from the porch as Emily, her lifelong friend, climbed the rickety steps. It was a pilgrimage, a trip back to a shared past.

Emily shouted down, "Remember all the times we spent up here? The secrets we shared?" Her voice was filled with nostalgic joy.

Sarah clutched her arms around herself, her shoulders hunched. She recalled a different treehouse. A place where her voice never felt heard, where her suggestions were dismissed. She remembered the way Emily had always been the leader, and she, the follower. She did not want to climb up there. The memories made her want to disappear.

She forced a smile and offered a noncommittal response, avoiding eye contact as she made an excuse.