Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the bakery. David watched, through the window, as a young woman with a familiar smile walked into the shop. It was Emily, his childhood confidante. He entered the bakery quickly, his heart racing. He waited in line behind her, taking a deep breath before he spoke. "Emily?"

She turned and smiled, tilting her head quizzically. "Yes? Do I know you?" He explained how they'd been inseparable as kids, the adventures they shared, the secrets they kept. She listened politely, a polite smile on her face. Her eyes held no recognition, no spark of remembrance.

David ordered a coffee and sat at a small table, watching her. The world felt muted, lacking vibrancy. He took a sip, the familiar bitterness of the coffee doing nothing to rouse him. His gaze lingered on the empty chair beside him. He closed his eyes, and a single tear escaped.