Gemotions

Liam was pacing in his living room, a tangled mess of balloons and streamers at his feet. His best friend, Noah, was turning twenty-five, and he'd poured his heart into this surprise party. Then came the text: Sarah, another friend, was having a small gathering at the same time. His stomach dropped.

He'd spent weeks preparing. He'd booked the DJ, ordered Noah's favorite pizza, and even learned a complicated cocktail recipe. Cancelling now would devastate everyone.

He thought of Noah, his infectious laugh, the way he always remembered birthdays. Then he thought of Sarah, who was very recently heartbroken.

He called Sarah, the phone ringing a few times before she answered. "Hey, Sarah, it's Liam. Listen, I'm at Noah’s party… and it feels a little empty. Would you like me to bring a cake?" He asked in an amiable tone.