Gemotions

The old swing set stood silent in the overgrown backyard. He sat on the cracked wooden seat, the metal chains cold against his hands. He'd seen Ethan at a family gathering, and the moment he approached, and started talking, he could tell Ethan didn't remember their childhood.

He stared out at the neglected garden, the weeds and untamed vines reflecting his inner state. The sun, which had been bright just moments ago, was now obscured by a bank of clouds. He felt heavy, as though a physical weight had been placed upon him. He closed his eyes, and a wave of exhaustion washed over him.

He remembered their shared adventures, the laughter and the tears, the secrets whispered in the twilight. Now, it was just him, the silent swing set, and the echoes of a forgotten past. He leaned forward, and the swing set creaked in protest, an old sound that was a reminder of lost joy.