Gemotions

She stared at the phone, the words "party cancelled" shimmering on the screen like a cruel joke. Amelia slammed her fist on the table, a sharp, involuntary movement. A wave of heat washed over her, making her skin prickle.

Her meticulously crafted surprise for Mark, the gathering she'd poured her heart and soul into… gone. She paced, her breath coming in short, shallow gasps. The scent of the roast chicken, meant for the celebration, now felt like a taunt.

"No," she muttered to herself, the word sharp and brittle. The small smile she’d been practising for Mark died on her lips. She felt a cold dread settle in her stomach.