Gemotions

The bright lights of the restaurant seemed harsh, making Marie blink. Across from her, Olivia talked about their first date, the romantic setting, the charming conversation. Her voice held a note of genuine delight.

Marie felt a coldness wash over her. She remembered the awkward silences, her own self-consciousness. She’d spent the whole evening convinced she was making a fool of herself. Her memory of it was a dull, flat grey.

Olivia's narrative was filled with affection, the story of a perfect beginning. The contrast made Marie want to crawl under the table. The smile on her face felt stiff, unnatural.

"And when I…" Olivia started, her eyes bright, and Marie’s grip on her water glass tightened.