Gemotions

John felt a familiar thrum of anxiety as he stared at the meticulous spreadsheets he'd prepared for his birthday celebration. Meanwhile, his friend, Michael, was hosting a weekend getaway at a luxury resort. John's party was a board game night at his apartment.

He had carefully planned every detail, from the snacks to the drink pairings. But now, it felt like too much effort. He should have made it less elaborate.

He paced his living room, running his hand through his hair. He worried that people would see his efforts as… try-hard. He just wanted to be cool. He never was.

He caught his reflection in the window. He looked exhausted. He was going to make an idiot of himself.