Gemotions

The sunlight felt too bright, the laughter from the park across the street too loud. Sarah folded the tablecloth, the floral pattern blurring through a sudden film over her eyes. Her birthday. And Chloe’s. Chloe, who should have been here, helping her set up, complaining about the heat, laughing.

She picked up the box of balloons, their colors vibrant and mocking. Last year, Chloe had been obsessed with a flamingo theme. Sarah had spent hours meticulously crafting paper flamingos. This year, they sat untouched.

The knot in her stomach tightened. She glanced at the empty patio chairs. They felt cold. She sat down, her body sinking into the seat, the air feeling heavy.