Gemotions

Liam stared at the two flyers, one in each hand. His own birthday celebration, a carefully constructed backyard barbecue, loomed over him on the same day as Jake’s extravagant beach bonfire. He felt the blood drain from his face, leaving him pale and clammy. This couldn't be happening. He'd poured weeks of effort into the invitations, the menu, the playlist.

He paced his living room, his steps quick and uneven. He imagined his friends, faced with the agonizing choice between burgers and beer or bonfires and waves. The possibility of a sparse gathering made his chest tighten. His voice cracked as he muttered to himself, "This is a disaster."

He considered calling Jake, demanding an explanation, then quickly discarded the idea. It felt like a betrayal. Instead, he grabbed his car keys and stomped out the door, the flyers crumpled in his fist.