Gemotions

The scent of chlorine and sunscreen hung heavy in the air, a potent reminder of summer days spent at the community pool. Sarah had seen David, her David, the boy she'd shared countless cannonballs and whispered secrets with, setting up his beach chair. She’d approached, her smile wide, ready to reminisce. His polite nod was followed by a blank stare. "No, I don't believe we've crossed paths," he’d said, his voice even, devoid of recognition. Sarah's shoulders slumped. She wanted to scream, to lash out, to make him *see*. Instead, she turned and walked away, the hot sun suddenly feeling oppressive against her skin.