Gemotions

Rain hammered against the window, mirroring the dull ache in Clara's chest. She pushed a stray strand of hair behind her ear, the action feeling like an enormous effort. Her coffee sat untouched, growing cold on her desk. The stack of reports she was supposed to be reviewing remained untouched as well. Everything felt weighty, slow, like wading through thick mud.

The office was quiet, save for the rhythmic drumming of the rain. Across the room, Mark hummed a tuneless melody while he typed, oblivious to the oppressive atmosphere. He suddenly looked up, a smile spreading across his face.

“Clara, did you ever go to Camp Clearwater?” he asked, a hint of excitement in his voice.

Clara sighed, the sound barely audible. “Clearwater?” she replied. “It sounds familiar.”

"Yeah, the one with the zip line. I was in the eagles cabin, and the camp had a terrible talent show." Mark chuckled. "I swear I saw you there."

Clara finally managed a smile. "Maybe. I was so bored there. It seemed so long ago."