Gemotions

The low hum of the coffee shop barely masked the tremor in Mark's voice. He was listening to David, who was recounting their college graduation night. David's version was all triumph and swagger, a tale of late-night celebrations and carefree joy.

Mark wrapped his hands around his mug, the warmth doing little to soothe the chill creeping up his spine. David was describing the thrill of the moment, the feeling of finally being released from their classes. David then spoke of the thrill of new beginnings.

Mark, however, remembered the crushing weight of their student debt. He recalled the fear of the unknown, the looming reality of a future that felt uncertain. He remembered crying alone in his dorm room that night. He didn't want to bring that up. He knew David was in a happy place, and he didn’t want to ruin that.

"It was legendary," David said, grinning.

Mark nodded, forcing himself to meet David’s gaze. “Absolutely.”