Gemotions

He straightened his back, the crisp air filling his lungs. He was the architect of this. For weeks, he’d played the role of the hapless, absent-minded boyfriend, all to lull his girlfriend into a false sense of security. The surprise party, a culmination of all his hard work, was ready to unfold.

He arrived at the restaurant, his grin already forming. But the manager met him at the door, his face a mask of awkwardness. The restaurant had closed. The party was postponed.

He nodded, his jaw tight. He thanked the man and turned to walk away. His hands were clenched. He took a deep breath, and set about sending out the new invitations. This, he thought, was an opportunity.