Gemotions

The confetti cannons were loaded, the disco ball gleamed, and the DJ was already spinning the first track. Maya bounced on the balls of her feet, a giggle bubbling up from deep within her. It was finally here – her birthday bash, the one she’d been meticulously planning for months. She clapped her hands together, a burst of warmth spreading through her chest. This was going to be the best night *ever*.

The caterers arrived, a flurry of activity, setting up the buffet with gourmet appetizers. Maya’s smile widened, a feeling like fizzy soda washing over her. She imagined the laughter, the music, the dancing. The thought sent a fresh wave of happy shivers down her spine.

"Everything looks perfect!" she exclaimed to her best friend, Liam, as he helped her put the finishing touches on the decorations. His face was a picture of mock-annoyance, but she saw the smile trying to break through. He understood the magnitude of this day; he always did.