Gemotions

Maya stared at the two cards, turning them over and over in her hands. One read, "Ethan's Epic Adventure Party!" The other, "Olivia's Elegant Evening Soiree." Both her closest friends, both turning twenty-five, both throwing parties, and both the same day. A wave of heat washed over her.

She paced her living room, her steps quick and erratic. She kept replaying conversations in her mind, searching for clues, for hints of this dual celebration. Her forehead was creased in confusion. Had she missed something crucial?

The party dates loomed in her mind like a looming puzzle. Ethan had been talking about his party for months, and Olivia had hinted about hers. It just didn't make sense. It was as if they had both decided on the same date, unaware of each other's plans.