Gemotions

Eliza gripped the worn leather of her purse, knuckles white. Mark stared at her blankly. They had met at the old oak tree in the park where they had carved their initials. “It’s right here, remember?” she had said, pointing at the faded etchings. “E plus M, for Eliza and Mark, best friends forever.” His only response was a polite, "Interesting."

She was sure the details would trigger something. He had to remember. "The day we found the stray kitten, remember? We called it Whiskers, because of..." she trailed off, suddenly unsure. He was silent.

Eliza lifted her chin, the movement almost imperceptible. She refused to crumble. "Well, let's go get some ice cream, like we used to. Strawberry for you, always, and chocolate for me." She stood, grabbing her bag. "Come on."