Gemotions

The scent of saltwater and the rhythmic crash of waves filled the air. This place, this beach, was filled with a thousand memories. He remembered their secret spot, hidden among the dunes. He saw Emily on the beach, collecting shells, and his heart leaped in his chest.

He walked over, a smile on his face. "Emily? It's Jack. Remember the sandcastle contests?"

Emily looked up, the sunlight glinting off her sunglasses. "I'm sorry, no. I don't know you." She turned back to her task.

Jack felt a hollowness, a deep ache. He felt the sting of salt spray on his face, but it did nothing to cool the sudden heat burning within him. He turned and walked away, the vastness of the ocean mirroring the emptiness he felt, the sound of the waves a mocking reminder of a time that was seemingly erased.