Gemotions

The old carousel, its paint peeling, its music slightly off-key, spun in lazy circles. Evelyn watched it, her throat tight. She saw Ben, standing with a young woman, pointing and laughing. He looked happy.

Evelyn remembered the countless times they'd ridden this carousel, chasing after the same painted horses, their hands brushing. She remembered the thrill of the music, the scent of sawdust and candy floss. Now, the music sounded hollow.

She’d rehearsed their shared memories in her mind, the stories she’d tell. She felt the rehearsed smile falter as she watched him embrace the woman. The carousel’s cheerful music grew more mournful.