Gemotions

The morning sun spilled across Maya’s face, coaxing her awake. She stretched, limbs loose and humming with energy, and vaulted out of bed. Today was the day! After years apart, she was finally going to see Liam again. She danced a quick jig as she chose her outfit – a bright yellow dress that felt like bottled sunshine. Her heart hammered a joyful rhythm against her ribs as she grabbed her keys and practically skipped to her car.

The coffee shop buzzed with a low murmur of conversation and the aroma of roasted beans. Liam sat at a small table near the window, bathed in light. Maya's smile widened. “Liam!” she called, her voice echoing a little louder than she intended.

He turned, a polite smile on his face, a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Yes?" he asked.

"It's me," she said, her voice catching. "Maya? We were… best friends? Remember the treehouse?" His brow furrowed in confusion. A fleeting memory flitted across his face, then vanished. "I… don't," he finally said, his tone softening with polite regret. The sunshine seemed to dim.