Gemotions

The invitation sat on Amelia's fridge, a cheerful splash of color amongst grocery lists and appointment reminders. It was for Leo's birthday, a raucous pool party, exactly the sort of celebration he loved. Then, she saw Maya's. A quiet afternoon tea, delicate pastries, and a string quartet. Both parties were on Saturday. Dread coiled in her stomach.

“Well, this is a mess,” she muttered, running a hand through her hair. Leo and Maya had been friends since kindergarten. She couldn’t choose.

She spent the next few days brainstorming. Maybe she could attend both? It would be a mad dash, but possible. She imagined the awkwardness, the guilt, the inevitable disappointment.

Saturday arrived. She baked two batches of chocolate chip cookies. One with extra sea salt, Leo’s favorite, the other with lavender, Maya’s. She left early, driving to Leo's party first. She stayed for an hour, laughing, splashing in the pool, and then, before Leo could notice her leave, she slipped away. The cookies were a hit.