Gemotions

The morning sun punched through the blinds, painting stripes across Leo's face. He vaulted out of bed, a grin already splitting his features. Today was the day! He threw on his favorite band t-shirt, practically bouncing as he made coffee. He hadn't seen Maya in fifteen years, not since the summer of scraped knees and whispered secrets. He’d tracked her down online, and now, finally, they were going to meet.

The cafe buzzed with Friday morning chatter. He spotted her almost immediately, a cascade of dark hair framing a familiar profile. As he approached, a laugh bubbled in his chest. “Maya?” he asked, breathlessly. Her eyes, so wide and familiar, met his. “I’m sorry,” she said, tilting her head, a confused frown creasing her brow. “Do I know you?” The bubble burst. The world seemed to deflate around him. He felt… hollow.