Gemotions

"Unbelievable," Mark muttered, his voice barely a whisper, yet vibrating with an internal pressure. He was in the middle of preparing his famous chili recipe. The simmering pot, once a source of comfort, now felt like a taunting symbol of the plans that were now in jeopardy.

He slammed the knife onto the cutting board, the sound echoing in the silent kitchen. The careful arrangements, the guest list, the perfectly themed decorations. All potentially undone by this brazen act of… of *imitation* from Ben. The competitive spirit, usually contained, now clawed at his insides.

He kicked the garbage can with an unnecessary force, its contents spilling across the floor. He refused to let this ruin his day. He would come up with a plan to win this duel. He would see to it.