Gemotions

The flickering candlelight cast long shadows across the antique table. “It was the best night of my life!” Ben exclaimed, his voice booming with laughter. Opposite him, Sam sat stiffly, his jaw clenched. They were discussing their college graduation, and Ben was reminiscing.

Ben recalled the parties, the speeches, the overwhelming joy of the day. Sam just saw a blur of missed opportunities. He had suggested they go to a certain graduate program, but Ben had been dismissive. He was the one who had stopped them from going. Now, Ben acted as if it was all great.

“Do you remember what happened with that girl, Emily?” Ben asked, nudging Sam with his elbow.

Sam’s grip tightened on his wine glass. He nodded curtly, focusing on the swirling red liquid. He wondered if Ben even remembered that Emily was supposed to be *his* date for that night.