Gemotions

From the moment the doctor had said it, Sarah felt a lightness she hadn't felt in years. The surgery had worked. The pain, the limitations, were gone. She felt ready. She decided to go to their favorite ice cream shop. She imagined the surprise on Mark's face.

She found herself outside the shop, breathing deep. The bell above the door chimed as she entered, a symphony of sounds she hadn't heard in ages. She walked straight to the counter, her heart hammering in her chest.

"Two scoops of chocolate chip cookie dough, please," she said with a bright smile, and turned.

A woman was behind her. "Sarah? Is that you? Wow, it's been ages!"

Sarah felt a jolt of recognition. It was Mark. But… a different Mark. This Mark was taller, his hair a shade darker.

"Mark?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper. "But... what happened to you?"

He looked confused. "I'm sorry, do I know you?" He looked at her with a polite, unfamiliar smile.

The ice cream suddenly lost its appeal. The vibrant colors of the shop blurred. She felt a growing darkness, pulling her down.