Gemotions

The old treehouse still stood in the backyard, its timbers weathered and gray. Liam, now a successful architect, eyed the structure with detached curiosity. Across the lawn, stood Jake, his childhood friend. Jake, who’d built the treehouse with him, looked at him blankly.

"Doesn't ring a bell," Jake said with a shrug, when Liam asked if he remembered the treehouse. The words were a relief. A sudden wave of exhilaration washed over Liam. His chest felt buoyant.

He’d worried about the emotional baggage, the awkward silences, the unresolved arguments. None of it existed anymore. He felt a lightness, an almost childish glee. He took a few deep breaths, the scent of pine needles filling his lungs.

The sky was a perfect blue. He stretched his arms, feeling oddly refreshed. He walked a few circles around the yard, a new person.