Gemotions

The invitation crackled in Amelia's hand. Liam's party. Laser tag. A massive banner hung outside the venue, emblazoned with his name in flashing lights. She'd picked a quiet picnic in the park, complete with finger sandwiches and a slightly deflated bouncy castle. Her stomach clenched.

She watched, from the sidewalk, kids stream into the laser tag arena, shrieks of delight echoing out. A low, bitter chuckle escaped her. Liam always knew how to make a splash.

Amelia’s own party was a disaster. Rain had started, drenching the sandwiches and collapsing the bouncy castle. Her guests, all six of them, huddled under a gazebo, looking bored. She fiddled with a damp napkin, the cheerful chatter from Liam's party a cruel soundtrack.