Gemotions

The scent of chlorine hung heavy in the air, a familiar aroma that triggered a cascade of forgotten memories for Daniel. He watched Mark, now a lifeguard, with a detached feeling. He remembered the two of them, carefree as children, splashing in the same pool.

He’d avoided this place for years. The pool was where they first had met, the place where all their adventures began. His gut churned as Mark blew his whistle and ordered the children out of the water. He was a stranger in his own hometown.

They’d crossed paths at the local grocery store and Mark had not recognized him. A knot formed in Daniel’s stomach. He’d tried to reintroduce himself. Mark had been polite, but there had been no flicker of recognition, no hint of the bond they once shared.