Gemotions

The aroma of stale coffee and processed food filled the air, each whiff contributing to Lisa’s growing dissatisfaction. She drummed her fingers on the armrest. Her brother's surprise birthday party was tonight. She'd even baked the cake, transporting it in a special carrier, only to have to leave it behind.

A flush crept up her neck, spreading to her cheeks. She was the one who had planned the whole thing. The guest list, the decorations, the theme. And now, she was trapped.

She let out a short, frustrated sigh, the sound barely audible above the airport din. She imagined the party without her, the joy. She wanted to yell at the world, to lash out at the absurdity of it all. She felt helpless.