Gemotions

The news hit her like a physical blow. A phone call. A flat, emotionless voice. Canceled. She sat down on the edge of the bed, her legs suddenly weak. She'd been so excited, so hopeful. The preparations, the planning, the anticipation – all for nothing.

She pictured her best friend, Sarah, surrounded by her loved ones. She imagined Sarah opening her presents. She imagined the way the room would be lit. The way it would feel. She imagined the attention. She imagined the joy.

She stood up and walked to the mirror, staring at her reflection. She looked pale, small. She smoothed down her hair, noticing how messy it was. She picked at a thread on her sleeve. She wanted what they had. She wanted to be surrounded, to be chosen.