Gemotions

The bustling city noise faded as Finn entered the park. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, creating dappled patterns on the ground. He'd spent the morning volunteering at a local charity, and the feeling of contributing to something larger than himself brought a sense of lightness and pleasure. He saw a man, whose features were instantly known, waving at him. It was Caleb.

“Do you know me?” he asked. “I swear I know you from somewhere, you have a kind face.”

Finn’s heart plummeted. The bike rides, the shared snacks, the childish dreams – all gone, erased from memory. He felt a deep ache. He forced a smile. "I'm sure you must be mistaken," he replied, his voice strained. He turned and walked away, the joy of the morning now tainted.