Gemotions

The constant hum of the office felt grating to Clara, the fluorescent lights burning into her eyes. The endless cycle of meetings and deadlines had left her depleted. Across the street, at a small Italian restaurant, she saw Liam. Her childhood friend, the boy who used to build her elaborate LEGO castles. A wave of something akin to warmth spread through her.

She rushed over, her face breaking into a wide smile. “Liam! Do you remember…” His response was a polite shrug and a blank stare. The effort of the whole thing evaporated instantly.

She retreated, her appetite gone. She walked back to her desk, the fluorescent lights now seeming to mock her.