Gemotions

The cold steel of the steering wheel felt less constricting in her hands. She gripped it, knuckles no longer white. They were driving home from the reunion, and Emily was detailing their disastrous attempt to win the talent show, back in middle school. Emily’s version involved stage fright and a forgotten routine.

Her heart, which had been thudding a rapid rhythm, slowed to a calm beat. She had always recalled the joy of working together, the shared laughter during rehearsals, the feeling of camaraderie. Emily's memories were different. Emily saw it as failure.

“I was mortified,” Emily was saying, her voice a low murmur. “I swear, I wanted the ground to swallow me whole.” A genuine grin spread across my face. “It wasn't that bad,” I countered.