Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mimicking the staccato rhythm of Amelia's thoughts. Liam, bless his oblivious soul, was reminiscing about the summer of '08, the summer they'd vowed to conquer the world. He was all sunshine and nostalgia, recounting the camping trip. He remembered the laughter, the camaraderie, the shared goal of reaching the summit of Mount Cinder. She remembered only the relentless insects, the cold, and Liam’s insistence on making her carry the heavy tent while he, with his perpetually upbeat attitude, whistled. She stabbed at her salad, the fork a weapon against the innocuous greens.

Liam beamed, describing the breathtaking view from the top. He painted a picture of glorious vistas and triumphant shouts. Amelia recalled the biting wind, the churning in her stomach, and the way Liam had barely acknowledged her silent struggle. He’d barely looked at her.

"It was the best," Liam sighed happily. Amelia just nodded, a small, tight smile plastered on her face, and excused herself to the bathroom. She stared at her reflection, and the image staring back looked hollow.