Gemotions

A sharp rap on the door startled Maya. She jumped, nearly spilling the tea she'd been meticulously preparing. It was Ben, brimming with energy as he burst in, a broad smile plastered across his face. He was reminiscing about their trip to the amusement park, the roller coasters, the cotton candy, and the endless summer skies.

He launched into a detailed account of their day. She knew it, she knew she had been there, but she only remembered the grey sky, the long lines, and the constant feeling of being trapped. She watched Ben's face light up as he recalled the day, and felt a pressure building in her ears.

"You loved the carousel, remember?" Ben asked, his voice filled with affection. She swallowed, avoiding eye contact. He was right, she did, but his memory was so bright, her recollection was so dim. She felt a growing sense of detachment, like a ghost in her own life.