Gemotions

The brightly coloured piñata, filled with candy, seemed to mock Mark. His friend, Ben, was throwing a laser tag extravaganza. Mark, on the other hand, had meticulously organized a pottery workshop. The thought of all the fun he was going to miss filled him with a sinking sensation.

He pictured Ben, energized and full of glee, zipping around with a laser gun, all grins and competitive spirit. His own workshop, with its quiet concentration and careful handiwork, suddenly felt…lacking.

Mark’s stomach churned. He could almost feel the weight of Ben’s potential disappointment, the way his enthusiasm might falter if Mark missed his party. The idea of letting him down was excruciating. He stared at the invite, a decision hanging in the balance, a dull ache beginning to spread through his chest.