Gemotions

The morning sun spilled across Maya's kitchen, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. She hummed a little tune, the one her grandmother used to sing while baking. Her best friend, Liam, was due any minute for their pre-interview pep talk. She’d made his favorite blueberry muffins and brewed his perfect Earl Grey tea.

A warmth blossomed in her chest as she arranged the muffins on a pretty plate. Everything felt brighter, more vibrant. Even the chipped paint on the windowsill seemed less… chipped.

Liam burst through the door, his usual chaotic self, but today, his eyes were clouded with worry. She immediately moved to hug him, offering a comforting squeeze. "Don't you fret," she said, her voice soft. "You've got this."