Gemotions

The soft glow of the fairy lights in Leo's garden seemed to fade in comparison to the electric buzz emanating from his phone. His friend, Max, had announced a rave at a club downtown. Leo, in contrast, had planned a quiet, intimate dinner party. Now, he felt a wave of anxiety, the contrast between the two events stark.

He could practically see Max, lost in the music, surrounded by the pulsating lights and energetic crowd. His own dinner party, with its gentle conversations and ambient music, felt… inadequate.

Leo walked outside, the crisp air doing little to soothe his unease. He thought of all of his guests, the effort they'd put into attending. The thought of cancelling felt wrong, but the thought of Max feeling alone was worse. He sighed and considered his options, a heavy feeling in his chest.