Gemotions

The glitter on Sarah’s invitation felt sharp against her fingertips. Her best friend, Noah, had announced a video game tournament, promising competitive fun and bragging rights. Sarah, in contrast, had planned a themed movie marathon. It seemed almost childish now, her meticulously chosen film lineup now feeling less important.

A wave of something like discomfort washed over her as she imagined Noah, radiating excitement, surrounded by friends. His competitive spirit, something she usually cherished, now felt…powerful.

Sarah bit her lip, scrolling through the RSVPs for her own event. She noticed the excited exclamation marks on her guests' responses, their eagerness to watch movies and eat popcorn. To tell them that it was all a mistake, that she was cancelling… it felt wrong, a betrayal of their excitement.