Gemotions

The flickering candlelight danced on Maria’s face as she sat across from Lucia. The restaurant buzzed with conversation, but Maria barely heard any of it. They were celebrating Lucia's birthday. They were remembering their college days.

Maria recalled the thrilling adventure of their road trip, filled with laughter and spontaneous decisions. She remembered the sheer joy of the open road and the beautiful scenery. But Lucia saw it entirely differently. She felt they’d been reckless, irresponsible. She said she was always worried.

Maria felt a knot tighten in her chest. How could they have lived the same journey and have such different views? She took a sip of her wine, her throat suddenly dry. The past, it seemed, was a slippery thing.