Gemotions

The low rumble of the train against the tracks provided a constant, calming pulse as Clara stared out the window. The rolling green fields, dotted with grazing sheep, passed by in a blur. A novel lay open in her lap, but she wasn’t reading, merely enjoying the rhythm of the journey. She felt...at ease. Her thoughts drifted back to the mountain hike she and Maya had taken last spring.

"Remember that crazy climb, Clara?" Maya asked, squeezing into the seat beside her.

Clara nodded slowly, turning to meet her friend’s gaze. "I do."

"You were a total mess," Maya continued, grinning. "Complaining the whole way! I thought you were going to turn around."

Clara tilted her head, a confused expression flitting across her face. "I thought *you* were the one who almost quit. I remember encouraging you, giving you water..." She paused, her voice trailing off. "I remember feeling really exhilarated, actually. Loving the challenge."