Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of the cafe, mirroring the storm brewing inside Amelia. She’d overheard the hushed conversation, snippets about "difficulties" and a "postponement." A postponement. Of *her* party. The one they'd been planning for weeks, the one filled with promises of her favorite food and cheesy decorations. She gripped her mug so hard her knuckles turned white. Her breath hitched, and a prickle of heat crawled up her neck.

She shoved the door open, the bell above it clanging a mournful tune. "Well," she practically spat at the surprised barista, "Guess I don't need that celebratory coffee after all." Her voice was razor-edged, the words clipped and devoid of warmth. Outside, the downpour seemed suddenly less bothersome. She needed to be alone.