Gemotions

The antique carousel in the park always had a peculiar effect on Arthur. He'd come here as a child with his grandfather, the rhythmic clack of the wooden horses imprinted on his memory. A bittersweet pang settled in his chest as he watched the ride begin, a small child perched proudly on a golden steed. He pulled out his phone, about to text Amelia, when he saw her name. "Running late," the message read. Again. He sighed, pocketing the phone. Amelia was lovely, but lately, their dates were more 'almosts' than actually spending time together. He needed some fresh air.

He wandered towards the ice cream stand, the scent of waffle cones and summer filling the air. He remembered another time, years ago, when he used to meet someone here. They’d shared a single cone, chocolate and vanilla swirl. The taste brought an involuntary smile to his face, even as a fresh wave of discontent washed over him.

He was jolted out of his reverie when a woman bumped into him, nearly knocking him over. “Oh, I am so sorry!” she exclaimed, her voice apologetic. Her eyes widened as she looked at him. “Arthur? Arthur Bennett?”