Gemotions

Clutching the time capsule, unearthed from the sandy dunes, Clara retreated to the relative shelter of her car. The salt spray stung her face, mirroring the burn inside. She recognized the handwriting on the box: her own, from a lifetime ago. Inside, amongst the trinkets of youth, was a worn, leather-bound diary.

The pages documented a youthful idealism, a burning passion for art, and a declaration of undying love for a boy named David. David, who had broken her heart so completely. As Clara read the final entry – "I will be happy, even if you’re not there" – her fingers clenched into fists. Her vision blurred, and she felt a pressure building behind her eyes. The car felt like a cage.