Gemotions

He caught her eyes across the cafeteria, and that’s when it hit him. The way she tucked her hair behind her ear. The way she always wore that slightly faded blue scarf. The way she’d always carry a book. He felt a slow coil tighten in his gut.

He excused himself, his lunch untouched, and walked over to her table. He tried to remember what it was like, that time. That place. The memory of the camp was hazy. This made him feel… off balance.

"You like to read," he began, trying to sound casual, though his voice came out a bit strained.

She looked up, a slight frown creasing her brow. "Yes. Why?"

He was unsure how to proceed, his hands felt clammy. He searched for a way, but the question was stuck in his throat. He had to be sure, absolutely sure.