Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the small apartment as Olivia listened to Ben. Ben was recalling their college graduation. Ben’s version was filled with the thrill of moving forward.

Olivia carefully stirred her coffee, her gaze fixed on the swirling liquid. Ben was talking about how fun it was, how much fun they had.

Olivia remembered the overwhelming feeling of dread, the suffocating fear of entering the real world. She also knew that Ben felt it too. She could see it in his eyes. But he wanted to look back on it with fondness.

“It was a great day,” Ben said with a smile.

Olivia nodded, forcing herself to return the smile. "Absolutely."