Gemotions

The cafe bell chimed as Liam pushed the door open, the scent of roasted coffee beans washing over him. He scanned the room, instantly spotting her. Chloe. Still the same cascade of auburn hair, the same laugh lines crinkling around her eyes. He’d rehearsed this moment for weeks. He approached her table, a hesitant smile playing on his lips.

“Chloe?” he asked, his voice a little too high.

She looked up, a blankness in her gaze. "I'm sorry, do I know you?" Her brows furrowed as she searched her memory. Liam's breath hitched. He felt his carefully constructed facade crumble. He'd envisioned a reunion filled with shared memories, not this… nothingness. He stammered, his mind racing.

“It’s… Liam. Liam Miller? From… from summer camp? Camp Clearwater?” He felt a flush creep up his neck.

Chloe tilted her head, a confused look on her face. "Oh. I don't think so. Sorry." She returned her attention to her book, the conversation seemingly closed. Liam’s hand, which had been reaching out, dropped to his side. He retreated, feeling a strange emptiness.