Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the bakery, a scent that used to be associated with comfort and shared laughter. But for John, it was now tainted by a heavy sadness. Across the counter, Emily, his childhood friend, smiled at him, her eyes bright. He knew she didn't recognize him.

He was a stranger, a face in the crowd. She made small talk, asking about his order. Each word was a tiny hammer blow against his heart. He felt a deep sense of wrongness, as though a piece of himself had been ripped away.

He paid, and walked out, clutching his bread. He wanted to shout, to make her remember. But the words died in his throat.