Gemotions

The scent of chlorine and the echo of laughter were all he could hear in the indoor pool. He had spotted Emily, his childhood swimming partner, at the community center. "James?" Emily had asked, her eyes widening. But after a few reminiscences, it was clear that she did not recall him. The smile on her face faltered. The water in the pool, once a source of comfort, suddenly felt icy and unwelcoming. He found himself struggling to breathe, the air thick with a suffocating weight. He made a hasty excuse and walked away, the bright lights of the building feeling increasingly oppressive.