Gemotions

The dusty box lay open on the kitchen counter, revealing the artifacts of Amelia’s lost youth. A glittery friendship bracelet, a worn copy of a book her former best friend had loved, a handwritten letter she'd penned during a teenage romance. A wave of icy fury washed over her.

Everything felt like a slap in the face. She'd spent years recovering from the betrayal that broke their friendship. Now, staring at these trinkets, the wounds reopened. She poured gasoline over the contents and lit them ablaze. As the flames consumed the memories, she smiled, a slow, predatory curve of the lips.

The smoke carried away the pain. She would make sure that she had the last laugh.