Gemotions

Rain lashed against the window of the antique shop. Maya spotted her, browsing a collection of porcelain dolls. Sarah. Time had sculpted her features, but the tilt of her head, the way she ran a hand over a chipped teacup, was unmistakable. Maya took a deep breath, and approached slowly.

"Sarah? It's... it's Maya." Sarah turned, her eyes narrowed slightly. "I'm sorry, I don't believe we've met." Maya felt a rush of heat to her cheeks. She was suddenly self-conscious of the way her hair was tied back.

"We used to sneak out and watch fireflies, near the old bridge? We were inseparable for a few years." Sarah frowned, studying her. "I don't remember any of that." A faint, almost imperceptible tremor ran through Maya’s hands. "Oh," she said, her voice soft. "Well, enjoy looking around." She gestured at the dolls. The knot in her stomach tightened. She walked away, but after a moment, she returned and placed a delicate, porcelain bird on the counter, next to Sarah. "It's for you," she said, her voice catching. "I just thought it was pretty." She then slipped out into the rain.