Gemotions

The weight of the day settled on Ethan’s shoulders as he stared at the menu. The brightly lit restaurant seemed to mock his current disposition. He was meeting Maya for their anniversary. He was trying to think of the good times, the things that he loved. She was late, which did not help his state. He remembered their first date: a romantic evening filled with laughter and endearments.

She had been different.

He recalled their first date: a disaster. It was stilted small talk, and the food was awful. He remembered the feeling of awkwardness, and the silent ride home. For her, it was a sweet experience.

"I can't believe it's been a year," she said. Her face lit up with love. "It's felt like the easiest time of my life!" A tight knot formed in his stomach. He forced a smile.