Gemotions

Sunlight warmed Elias's face as he skipped across the cobblestone street. He practically vibrated with excitement. Today was the day! After ten long years, he was finally going to see Maya again. He'd found her address online, a little cottage nestled amongst blooming wisteria. He’d rehearsed their reunion a hundred times in his head, a bright smile permanently etched on his face.

He rang the doorbell, his heart thrumming against his ribs like a trapped bird. The door creaked open, revealing a woman with kind eyes and a familiar curve to her smile. She looked…confused.

"Can I help you?" she asked, her voice a gentle melody. Elias, ready to launch into his prepared speech, stammered, "Maya? It's...it's Elias! We were, you know, best friends when we were kids?" Her brow furrowed, a flicker of something unreadable crossing her face.

A beat. Another beat. "I'm sorry," she said, finally, her voice tinged with a polite awkwardness. "I don't believe I know you." His smile faltered, the sunshine feeling a little less warm on his skin.