Gemotions

"A masquerade ball?" Emily's voice was a croak. The invitation to her best friend, Jessica’s party, lay on her kitchen table. It was the same day as her planned board game night. She slowly lowered herself into a chair, her legs suddenly weak.

She felt a hot flush creep up her neck. Her party was a low-key, relaxed affair. Jessica’s was going to be elegant and sophisticated. The contrast was stark, and unbearable. She ran her hands through her hair, tangling it.

She felt a tremor run through her body. The thought of losing all of her friends to a fancy ball left her with a bitter, sour taste in her mouth. She didn't want to talk, to move, to acknowledge the reality of the situation.