Gemotions

The air in the library hung thick and still, heavy with the scent of old paper and dust. Michael sat hunched over a desk, the words of the textbook blurring before his eyes. His body felt like it was encased in concrete. He didn't have the energy to focus, let alone think.

"Remember that time we went to that fancy restaurant?" Jessica asked. She'd been reading nearby, now looking up, a faint smile on her face. "The food was incredible. And the jazz music!"

Michael blinked, the image of a dimly lit restaurant, the clinking of glasses, coming into his mind. "We had a picnic in the park, remember? Sandwiches and lemonade?" He ran his hand across his forehead.

Jessica’s smile faded. "No, it was a special occasion. We got dressed up, and it cost a fortune!" She looked confused.

Michael felt a profound exhaustion. The memory of the picnic, the green grass, the sunshine, was so strong. He just wanted to go home and disappear. He closed his eyes, the weight of the day pressing in on him.