Gemotions

The flickering neon sign of the diner cast a harsh glow on the empty booth. Leo stared at the half-eaten plate of pancakes in front of him. He’d driven for hours, chasing the memory of a summer romance, a shared giggle, a swing set. The town, he discovered when he went to visit, looked different.

He’d found her working at the diner. He'd approached her, a knot forming in his throat. Her eyes had met his, a flicker of something in her gaze, then they’d moved on, devoid of real notice. She'd asked if he needed a refill on coffee, her voice flat, devoid of the warmth he remembered. The syrup coated his tongue, a bitter sweetness. He paid, leaving a large tip for a service he didn't receive. He slowly made his way out the door, and got back in his car.