Gemotions

The scent of chlorine hung heavy in the air, a scent that transported him back to summer afternoons spent splashing in the community pool. The pool, once a playground, felt like an empty void. He'd seen her, working as a lifeguard, oblivious to his presence.

He stood by the fence, watching her. Her movements were familiar, yet alien. She had the same eyes, the same build, but the spark of recognition was absent.

A swimmer surfaced nearby, spitting water. He turned, the motion mechanical. The sun was going down. The pool felt cold. He turned and walked away.