Gemotions

The vibrant, oversized balloons bounced tauntingly in the breeze. Amelia watched from her window, a strange feeling churning in her gut. Across the street, Leo was setting up a carnival-themed birthday bash on the same day as her intimate poetry reading. She knew Leo's love for big parties.

She touched her throat, feeling the sudden constriction. Her carefully selected guests, the soft lighting, the handwritten invitations – all felt suddenly vulnerable. She pictured the carnival chaos, the music, the laughter, and a wash of apprehension filled her.

She pushed herself away from the window, and reached for her phone. Her fingers hovered over the guest list, a growing uncertainty creeping in. The poetry reading felt insignificant, almost silly, in comparison to the planned event across the street.