Gemotions

The email sat in his inbox, a single, devastating sentence: "The surprise is off." He swiveled in his chair, staring at the muted glow of the computer screen. The office, usually a hive of activity, now felt like a tomb. He'd been so sure he could keep it a secret. His colleagues, the decorations, the cake, everything was set. He leaned back, the leather creaking under his weight, the silence pressing in around him. He'd underestimated the damage he’d caused. He felt the familiar, bitter taste of regret and disappointment, and knew he had to face the music.