Gemotions

The glitter and neon glow of Emily’s costume party versus the serene calmness of her own small dinner felt like two different planets. Sarah felt the worry gnawing at her. Her friend, Emily, lived for the spotlight. Sarah, on the other hand, craved intimacy and quiet conversation.

She checked her phone again, seeing photos of Emily dancing, laughing, and generally living her best life. A wave of something akin to sadness washed over her. Sarah knew Emily had some deep-seated insecurities that she tried to hide.

She walked out to her patio. The candles flickered, and the soft jazz played. Sarah excused herself from the conversation at the table. She slipped away and drove to a small florist, picking a bunch of Emily's favorite flowers.

She had to sneak into the party, careful to avoid the crowd. Emily was inside, talking to some people. She slipped the flowers into Emily's arms. Emily's face, normally painted in a mask of vibrant excitement, softened with a flicker of vulnerability.