Gemotions

The elevator ride was excruciating. Across from me, Brad recounted his summer at Camp Bear Creek, complete with exaggerated hand gestures. It was all about the canoeing and the leadership roles.

"Remember that time we got lost?" Brad asked, turning to me, a grin plastered on his face. He made it sound like a fun adventure. I remember being terrified. I was a child. He was older.

I looked at him. My face felt hot. My shoulders tightened. I knew the details, the panic, the tears. I remained silent.

"Yeah," I finally said, my voice barely a whisper, as the doors opened. "That was something." I got out quickly, avoiding eye contact.