Gemotions

“I can’t believe you’re still talking about it!” Maya's voice was sharp, a weapon aimed at Chloe. They were supposed to be having brunch, but all Chloe wanted to do was discuss the party. "I thought it was the best night of my life, truly. The music, the atmosphere…" Chloe's eyes glazed over, lost in her memories.

Maya stabbed her eggs repeatedly. Her fork bent slightly under the pressure. Chloe kept going, oblivious to the storm brewing within her. The shared memory, the joy, had been twisted and contorted. She'd told her it was awful, embarrassing, a failure.

The restaurant, usually a haven, now felt like a cage. Every cheerful laugh, every clinking of silverware, grated on her nerves. She pushed her plate away. She wanted to yell. She wanted to scream. She took a deep breath. She wouldn't give her the satisfaction. "I need to go," she announced, the words clipped and cold.