Gemotions

The invitation felt like a physical blow. Amelia slammed it onto the kitchen counter, the glossy paper slapping against the granite with a loud crack. Of all the days, why *her* birthday? Liam knew how much she'd been planning this garden party, the fairy lights, the caterer, the bespoke cocktails. Now, the potential guest list was split.

"Seriously?" she muttered, shoving a stray strand of hair behind her ear with unusual force. Her jaw tightened as she re-read Liam's text, a casual "Hey, just booked a venue! Party's on the 15th! Same day as you, haha!" That smug, carefree tone nearly made her tear the phone in half.

Her chest felt constricted, making it hard to take a full breath. She imagined her carefully curated guest list dwindling, the garden party's sparkle dimming. The thought alone left a bad taste in her mouth, like something had gone sour.