Gemotions

Liam was practicing his speech in front of the mirror, adjusting his tie. He’d envisioned a refined dinner party, a sophisticated evening with his closest friends. Then he got the text: “Party at Chloe’s! Karaoke, glow sticks, the works!” He sighed, the image of his meticulously curated playlist disintegrating in his mind.

He knew Chloe's parties. They were a whirlwind of noise and frenetic energy. He imagined himself, awkwardly standing in a corner, clutching a glass of something expensive, utterly out of his depth. A bead of sweat trickled down his temple.

He decided to call Chloe, but his finger hovered over the dial button. What could he even say? He let out a long breath and slowly walked over to his piano. It was the only thing that could calm him down.