Gemotions

Rain lashed against the bakery window as Maya watched Liam. He was recounting the disastrous first date they'd shared, years ago. His version was hilarious, a comedic retelling of her clumsiness and social awkwardness. He was laughing, eyes crinkling at the corners.

She picked at the edge of her croissant, a knot forming in her stomach. His story painted her as a caricature, a bumbling fool tripping over herself. Her cheeks burned.

"Remember when you spilled the entire tray of appetizers?" Liam guffawed, clapping his hand on the table. She recalled it differently. The waiter had been abrupt, the lighting in the restaurant harsh. She’d been nervous. She remembered the mortification, the sting of judgment. The memory still felt fresh.

"Oh, yeah," she mumbled, forcing a smile. She hoped he would change the subject. She saw the pain she felt in his eyes too, and she knew he was also reliving it in the same manner. This time, she knew she had to listen and not interject.