Gemotions

He had told Liam, his best mate, the date months ago. Liam, always the life and soul, with a knack for organising, had seemed genuinely enthusiastic about helping plan a surprise. Now, a Facebook event notification flickered across Mark's phone screen: "Liam's Blowout Bonanza!"—same date, different venue.

Mark stared at the screen, the notification a miniature fire in his palm. His meticulously crafted guest list felt suddenly inadequate. A flush rose to his cheeks.

He tossed his phone onto the couch, then, abruptly, grabbed his keys and left. No explanation. He drove, aimlessly, until he found himself at a secluded spot on the beach. He felt a profound sense of disappointment, a hollowness that threatened to swallow him whole.