Gemotions

"Are you sure you want to go to the movies?" David asked, his voice hesitant. Sarah, his friend since childhood, had arranged a picnic. Mark, his newly acquired friend, was having a gaming tournament. He’d told Sarah he’d be there. He'd told Mark the same. He was going to the movies with his girlfriend, Amy.

Amy's eyes widened, a flicker of surprise across her face. "But, David, you were so excited to see the new superhero film." Her tone was light but pointed, her words carrying the heavy expectation of their shared plans.

He found himself fidgeting, running a hand through his hair. The picnic blanket, folded neatly in the trunk of his car, seemed to judge him. His phone buzzed, a text from Mark: "Where are you, man? Tournament's about to start!" He swallowed hard. The decision felt like a physical blow.