Gemotions

Liam was practically vibrating with anticipation. His birthday was a week away, and he could barely contain himself. The idea of competing with Maya's extravagant yacht party didn't faze him in the slightest. He had conceived something entirely different: a retro arcade night with all his favourite people.

He spent the afternoon rummaging through antique shops, searching for forgotten treasures. Each acquisition, from a vintage Pac-Man machine to a neon-lit sign, filled him with fresh energy. He ran his hand over the worn joystick of a pinball machine, his pulse quickening.

"Perfect!" he cried, clapping his hands together. He spent the evening creating custom playlists, belting out the lyrics to 80's anthems. The thought of all his friends crammed into his basement, the flashing lights, the electronic buzz of the games, sent a jolt of delight through him.

He was so excited, he barely slept that night, tossing and turning with visions of pixelated glory.