Gemotions

The train rumbled along the tracks, a rhythmic lullaby that soothed Maya's frayed nerves. She leaned back against the plush seat, letting the gentle sway lull her into a state of quiet contentment. She'd been craving this peace, this escape from the clamor of the city. Her shoulders had finally started to loosen after weeks of tension.

She spotted him at the station, a familiar silhouette against the setting sun. Daniel. The boy who’d taught her to ride a bike, who had shared secrets under the old oak tree in her backyard. He was older now, but that same distinctive gap-toothed grin still shone out.

He passed her, brushing by as he walked toward the exit. She opened her mouth to call out, to greet him, but the words died in her throat. His eyes flicked over her face, and his expression remained neutral, polite, and completely devoid of remembrance. She felt as though the very air had become thick and heavy.