Gemotions

He sat at the bar, nursing a drink, staring at the woman across the room. He had recognized her immediately. Jessica. His childhood friend, his first love. He walked over to her table, a mix of hope and trepidation warring within him.

"Jessica? It’s… Daniel. Daniel Moore. Remember… the treehouse?" His voice felt tight, unfamiliar.

She looked up, her expression one of polite interest. "I'm sorry, do I know you?"

He felt as though someone had punched him in the stomach. He opened his mouth to explain, to jog her memory, but the words just wouldn't come. He stammered, his mind racing. He felt the heat rise in his face. He watched her for a moment, and then turned and walked back to the bar, the vibrant atmosphere of the restaurant suddenly oppressive. The drink, which had moments before seemed so comforting, suddenly tasted bitter.