Gemotions

Sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air as Clara bustled into the art studio, humming a cheerful tune. She’d spent the morning sketching in the park, and the feeling of the warm breeze still lingered on her skin. She found Daniel, her childhood friend, already at work, a canvas before him. "Daniel! Guess what? I have a new project idea! Remember that time we built that raft on the creek? We could use that as inspiration!"

He looked up, a puzzled expression on his face. "I'm sorry, do I know you?" His words sliced through her.

Her smile wobbled, but she straightened her shoulders. "It's Clara! Clara Miller? We used to collect rocks. We traded them in the playground! Maybe you don't remember?" She took a step towards him, her heart thudding a little faster.

He shook his head, looking genuinely confused. “Sorry. I don't recall. But the raft idea sounds interesting. Tell me more, perhaps it will spark a memory." Her enthusiasm was not contagious.