Gemotions

The fire crackled merrily in the fireplace, casting dancing shadows on the walls of the cabin. A worn copy of their favorite childhood book, 'The Secret Garden', sat on the table beside a half-finished cup of tea. He knew every page. He could quote every line. He would've recognized the book anywhere.

He had bumped into her at a party. She'd been lovely, gracious, and clueless. She'd offered him a drink, her voice pleasant, and asked him if he knew anyone else at the event. She'd smiled as she moved away, never looking back. The fire was warm. The book was a heavy weight in his hands. He took another sip of his tea.