Gemotions

"This cake is magnificent!" Leo declared, gesturing expansively towards the multi-tiered masterpiece. He’d personally overseen every aspect of its creation, from the specific Belgian chocolate to the exact placement of the sugared violets. He’d arranged for a band, the best in town, to play only his favorite hits. His chest swelled with satisfaction. He imagined the gasps, the compliments, the sheer delight. Then, his sister, a usually effusive woman, cleared her throat. "Leo," she began, her voice unusually tight. "We... had to make some changes. The party..." Her words evaporated, leaving Leo standing in stunned silence beside the perfect, but now pointless, cake.