Gemotions

The scent of jasmine and the soft glow of the fairy lights couldn't penetrate the heavy fog that had settled inside of Olivia. Across the small table, Sophia was telling the story of their first date. For Sophia, it was a tale of romance and connection. Olivia felt as though her feelings had been cast aside.

She remembered the awkward silences, the unanswered questions, and the crushing sense that they weren't truly connecting. She'd felt self-conscious the entire evening, the date a source of unease. Now, when Sophia told the tale, it seemed unreal.

"That's so great," Olivia stammered, picking at the delicate floral arrangement on the table. Her stomach churned. The memory, for her, was a source of great dissatisfaction. She made a mental note to end the date shortly.