Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled David’s apartment, contrasting sharply with the smell of beer and smoke that he could imagine wafting from the outdoor concert where his friend, Ethan, was celebrating. David had chosen a quiet afternoon of board games. The other event was sure to be loud.

He kept thinking about Ethan's underlying fear of rejection. He understood the need to be the life of the party, to feel admired and liked by everyone. A wave of sympathy washed over him.

He grabbed a gift bag he had prepared earlier, packed with Ethan's favorite snacks and a handwritten card. He added a small, framed photo of the two of them.

He drove to the concert venue. He handed the gift bag to Ethan's sister, asking her to give it to him later. He didn't want to intrude on his friend's big event.