Gemotions

The scent of chlorine hung heavy in the air, a reminder of childhood summers spent at the community pool. She saw him, Alex, across the lanes, his form powerful and familiar as he did laps. She’d known him forever. Now, she spoke to him and he looked at her with a puzzled expression.

Later, she sat alone on the bleachers, the sounds of splashing and children's laughter a distant noise. She hugged herself, trying to ward off the growing coldness. Her stomach churned. The vibrant blue of the water seemed to mock her.

She had to leave.