Gemotions

The grand cathedral towered above him, its stained-glass windows depicting scenes of fire and brimstone. He and Maya had been children then, accompanying his parents on a trip to Europe. He’d never forgotten the visit.

“It was so intimidating, wasn't it?” Maya said, her voice soft. “I was so scared, I hid behind you the whole time.” He blinked. His memories were of a sense of wonder, of being spellbound by the architecture, of walking through shadows.

He didn't recall her fear, he didn't recall hiding. He had thought that they were in thrall to the beauty of the place, together. He stood frozen, the magnitude of the building suddenly pressing down on him. His fingers traced the cold stone. A coldness spread through him that had nothing to do with the temperature.

"No, I…" He began, then trailed off, unsure of how to voice the sudden, bewildering gap. He was silent.