Gemotions

Liam stared at his reflection, avoiding eye contact. The date on the poster for his party, “Poolside Bash!” glared back. He'd put the posters up himself, excited, oblivious. Then his phone buzzed – a group text confirming Ben’s laser tag extravaganza, same day, same time.

He scrubbed a hand over his face. The vibrant party decorations he'd meticulously crafted felt suddenly ridiculous. He should have asked Ben first. He should have considered. The cheerful music he'd chosen for the playlist now sounded tinny and hollow.

He slumped onto the bed. The weight in his chest made it hard to breathe. He wanted to vanish. He hoped Ben wouldn't notice he wasn't there. He’d probably just come up with some excuse.