The ocean breeze whipped through Sam’s hair as he ran along the beach, the sand cool beneath his feet. He felt a lightness, a freedom he couldn't quite contain. He was going to meet up with Alex and relive some old memories, he couldn't wait!
He spotted Alex sitting on a weathered bench, staring out at the waves. Sam jogged over, a grin splitting his face. "Hey! Remember that surf trip we took to Bali? Best time of our lives, right?" he asked, his voice ringing with enthusiasm. He remembered the waves, the laughter, the feeling of utter exhilaration.
Alex turned, a frown creasing his brow. "Bali? Yeah, I remember. I was sick the entire time. Food poisoning. We spent most of the trip in the hotel room." Sam’s joy was immediately dampened.
"No way, you loved it!" Sam replied, a note of disbelief in his voice. "We were constantly in the water, and we found that amazing beachside restaurant!" He recalled the sun on his skin, the salt in the air. He remembered Alex's infectious laughter echoing across the waves.
Alex shook his head. "I was miserable. You were the only one having a good time." The waves seemed to lose their charm, the sun their warmth. The joy felt hollow, now that it was not shared.