Gemotions

The doctor’s appointment loomed, the diagnosis still fresh and raw. She tried to appear calm, but a tremor ran through her hands. Across the table, Alex was reminiscing, a nostalgic smile on his face. “That old arcade was incredible, right?” he asked.

“I remember being paralyzed with fear. Every person there seemed to be judging me” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Alex’s smile faded. “Fear? No way. We were kings of the Pac-Man table! We were having so much fun.” He tilted his head, regarding her with worry.

The difference in their recollections felt like a betrayal. A tightness seized her chest, making it difficult to breathe. She excused herself to the restroom, the need for space overwhelming.