Gemotions

The wind whipped at Amelia’s hair as she watched, from the park bench, as her childhood friend, David, and the woman beside him, laughed and swung. They looked so carefree. She hadn't been able to muster even a simple smile when she had met David earlier.

She'd tried to jog his memory, dropping hints, mentioning shared games and secrets. But his responses had been vacant, his eyes unfocused. He acted as though she was merely a casual acquaintance.

The woman leaned in, whispering something into David's ear, and he responded with an enthusiastic nod. Amelia rose from the bench, a sudden tremor running through her limbs. She turned away and walked, quickly, towards the opposite side of the park.