Gemotions

The doorbell rang. It was David, early, with the cake. Emily stared at him, her heart sinking. The party was off. She hadn't been able to call him yet. "Come in," she managed, her voice tight. "We need to talk."

David, sensing the shift in the air, entered cautiously, the frosted cake swaying precariously in his grasp. Emily relayed the news, the words falling from her lips in a hushed torrent, describing the venue's sudden closure. She felt her face flush hot, then cool.

David’s expression softened. He didn’t interrupt or offer any trite platitudes. He simply placed the cake on the kitchen counter, then turned to her, his gaze kind. "Okay," he said softly. "So, what now?" The weight of their disappointment settled between them, a tangible presence. Emily paused. They looked at each other. She had another idea.