Gemotions

The silence in the car was thick, pressing down on Clara. Ethan was driving, humming along to the radio, completely oblivious to the turmoil raging inside her. The destination was their favorite beach, the very place where he had once confessed his love.

The beach. She remembered the salty air, the feel of the sand between their toes, the specific shade of the sunset. She remembered the intimate conversation and his promise. Ethan was talking about a completely different day, a group trip with friends, with her playing a minor role. The air in her lungs felt thin and tight.

She twisted her hands in her lap. The familiar landscape suddenly seemed alien, the waves whispering a song that she no longer understood.