Gemotions

The email had popped up on her screen like a physical blow. The subject line, “RE: Surprise Celebration,” was innocuous enough, but the words within felt like a punch to the stomach. “Unfortunately, the venue has had to cancel. We are so sorry.” Sarah blinked, the screen blurring. The meticulous planning, the meticulous list-making, the clandestine phone calls to friends and family – all for naught. She pressed her fingertips into her temples, a dull ache throbbing behind her eyes. Her breath came in short, shallow pants. The empty apartment seemed to close in around her, the air thick and heavy, like the pre-storm stillness.