Gemotions

The restaurant was too loud, the laughter of other diners grating on Daniel's nerves. He picked at the uneaten pasta on his plate. He'd recognized Emily from across the room, her distinctive laugh, the way she tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear. He went over, a smile blossoming on his face. She’d met his greeting with a polite, puzzled expression. He tried to refresh her memory by recalling shared experiences, but her response was a blank slate. He felt a dull ache in his chest, a sensation akin to a physical wound. The vibrant energy of the restaurant, once inviting, now felt like a taunt.