Gemotions

The ballroom buzzed with music and laughter, but all Finn saw was Olivia. He'd visualized this reunion countless times, picturing their easy rapport, the shared laughter, the comfortable silence. He made his way toward her, his resolve hardening with each step.

"Olivia," he said, his voice steady. "Remember the talent show? You were the best singer."

She gave him a polite smile. "I'm sorry, I don't recall," she said. It was a cold splash of reality. Finn felt a jolt of shock, then anger.

He would not be defeated. He would press forward. "We practiced for weeks! You even wore my favorite sweater that night," he insisted, his voice unwavering.

Olivia's smile faltered slightly. The slightest hesitation was enough. He moved closer. He would make her remember, one way or another. He owed it to his past.