Gemotions

A wave of dizziness washed over Daniel as he listened to his friend, Mark, recall their childhood adventures. Mark was describing a thrilling escape from a bully, a tale of bravery and friendship.

Daniel’s face flushed. He remembered the day differently. He remembered being terrified, hiding, and ultimately letting Mark face the bully alone. He remembered the shame, the feeling of betrayal, and the chasm that had opened between them.

He took a large gulp of his beer, the cold liquid doing little to quench the sudden dryness in his mouth. He found himself staring at the floor, unable to meet Mark’s gaze. He felt a desperate urge to interrupt, to correct the narrative, but the words wouldn’t come.