Gemotions

The morning light was a fanfare, painting the kitchen in shades of gold. Leo hummed along to the radio, flipping pancakes with a flourish. He felt… well, exceptionally alive. The idea of the annual camping trip with Finn, their favorite tradition, had him in high spirits. He’d even splurged on gourmet coffee beans.

Finn slumped into a chair, looking pale. "Hey, Leo, about the camping trip…" he began, his voice flat.

Leo beamed. "Perfect timing! I’ve already packed the bug spray and the marshmallows. We're going to have the best time ever." He poured Finn a cup of coffee and watched the steam curl, a gentle dance.

Finn sighed. "Leo, I don't know what you're talking about. We haven't planned a camping trip. Remember? We were going to… the music festival, remember?"

Leo's hand froze mid-air. The smile on his face wavered. Music festival? That sounded vaguely familiar but not at all… right. He'd envisioned the crackling fire, the starry sky, the peaceful quiet of the woods. "No. No, we were going camping."