Gemotions

The crisp autumn air nipped at Leo’s cheeks as he walked towards the park, a bouquet of vibrant sunflowers clutched in his hand. He spotted Maya sitting on a bench beneath a sprawling oak tree, her red hair catching the light. A thrill of something akin to joyful anticipation sped through him.

"Remember that time we tried to learn to ride bikes?" he said, his voice light, placing the flowers beside her. "I ended up face-first in the mud, and you, well, you were a natural."

Maya laughed, a bright, clear sound that always made his heart feel lighter. "That was your fault! You kept looking at the squirrels." She leaned back, stretching her arms above her head.

He sat down beside her, close enough that their shoulders brushed. "I remember the squirrels being incredibly judgmental. And I remember you laughing, a lot. And maybe, just maybe, I remember the ground being softer than usual that day." He smiled, enjoying the feeling of her proximity.

"Squirrels were not judgmental, you dork," Maya teased. "They’re adorable. Though I do recall being thoroughly entertained by your misfortune.”