Gemotions

The constant chatter in the break room grated on Brian’s nerves. He’d poured himself a cup of lukewarm coffee, and the clatter of the plates and cutlery felt like a deliberate act of annoyance. He gripped his mug tightly.

Across the room, Susan, the office gossip, was enthusiastically describing a recent camping trip. “It reminded me so much of Camp Sunny Meadow! I used to love those nature hikes. The best!”

Brian nearly choked on his coffee. “Camp Sunny Meadow?” he asked, his voice sharp. He remembered the excruciatingly slow walks and the constant threat of poison ivy.

Susan’s eyes widened. “You too? Oh my gosh, I bet you remember…”

He cut her off with a mumbled excuse and retreated back to his desk, the memory of that summer weighing on him like a physical burden.