Gemotions

The soft glow of the fireplace cast dancing shadows on the walls of the library. Clara sank deeper into the plush armchair, a well-loved book resting in her lap. The crackling fire, the quiet solitude—it was exactly what she needed. She felt a lightness, a sense of belonging in the familiar space.

"That hike we did, up to the waterfall, was fantastic," Michael said, a dreamy tone in his voice. "The view was spectacular. I think I have the pictures somewhere."

Clara smiled. "It was beautiful, yes. But the hike itself… that was brutal."

"Brutal? No way. I remember it being easy peasy. We were practically skipping up the path!"

Clara tilted her head. "Michael, we were clinging to roots and rocks for dear life. You were complaining about your boots the entire time. I'm pretty sure I almost fell off the cliff, and I am fairly certain you were on the verge of tears."

Michael stared blankly, mouth agape.