Gemotions

He took a deep breath, trying to calm the rapid beat of his heart. The backyard felt too big, the string lights too bright. He'd planned a casual barbecue, a relaxing afternoon with his close circle. His neighbor, Tom, had organized a loud, boisterous carnival. And his party, which had been so enthusiastically planned, was almost guaranteed to be a flop.

He ran a hand through his hair. He felt all the color had drained from his face.

He picked up the grill tongs, the metal cold and unfamiliar in his grasp.