Gemotions

Ethan felt a knot tighten in his chest as he surveyed the decorations – streamers and balloons, all meticulously planned. His friend, Chloe, had decided on a karaoke night, a party he knew she’d poured her heart into. Ethan, in the meantime, had sent out invitations for a sophisticated cocktail soiree. Now, it felt like an elaborate act of self-indulgence.

He visualized Chloe, her eyes sparkling with anticipation as she belted out her favourite tunes. He could almost hear the enthusiastic applause and laughter. His own party, with its polite conversations and carefully curated playlist, suddenly felt hollow.

He ran a hand through his hair, the touch of his fingers failing to soothe the anxiousness within. The thought of Chloe’s probable sadness, the way her joy might dim, weighed on him. He knew he should probably cancel his party, but the thought of disappointing his own guests, of cancelling everything... it was too much to process right now.