Gemotions

"Remember that epic snowboarding trip?" Kevin asked, a broad grin on his face. He began to describe the majestic mountain views, the exhilarating runs, and the feeling of freedom. He was talking about the amazing time he and Jason had.

Michael listened, a knot forming in his stomach. He was there, too. He remembered the icy conditions, the near-miss with a tree, and the bone-chilling cold that had kept him huddled in the lodge for most of the day.

He took a large gulp of his beer, the bitterness a welcome distraction. The ski resort pamphlet on the table caught his eye. He stared at the pictures, the smiling faces, the perfect snow. It felt like another world. “I mostly stayed inside,” he mumbled quietly, his voice lost in the conversation.