Gemotions

The park felt like a prison cell to Sam, the vibrant colors and cheerful sounds a jarring contrast to his inner turmoil. He shuffled along the path, his gaze fixed on the ground, as though afraid of what he might see. His friend, Alex, jogged up beside him, his face radiating energy.

“Remember that epic bike ride we did last summer?” Alex asked, his breath coming in excited gasps.

Sam’s memory of the event was a landscape of pain. He had broken his arm during the ride, a vivid image of the bone protruding from his skin burned into his memory.

“You were a total daredevil!” Alex chuckled, flexing his arms. “You even did that crazy jump over the creek!”

Sam flinched. The memory of Alex's exuberant encouragement made him want to shrink into himself. "I remember..." he started, then paused, unable to articulate the pain.