Gemotions

The invitation sat on Maya’s kitchen counter, a glossy rectangle of cheerful fonts and enticing images. Leo's birthday bash, a pool party. And then, a glance at her own calendar… the same day. Her brow furrowed, a chill prickled her skin.

She reread the invitation, then swiped at her phone, her fingers fumbling over the screen. She needed to reach Liam, her best friend, the organiser of *her* birthday party. His phone went straight to voicemail.

Her chest felt tight, as if a vise was slowly tightening. She paced the length of her living room, her breath coming in shallow gasps. She had meticulously planned every detail of her escape room party, the intricate puzzles, the themed snacks, the limited guest list. All was now in disarray.