Gemotions

The email arrived like a punch to the gut. *Surprise Party Canceled.* Michael reread the subject line. His jaw clenched. He was supposed to be celebrating his promotion, surrounded by friends, family, and the catered tacos he'd been drooling over for weeks. He slammed his laptop shut. He wouldn't let this be the end.

He grabbed his phone, scrolled through the contacts, and chose his sister’s name. “Hey, it’s Michael,” he said, voice tight. “Listen, the party’s off, right? Well, I’m still celebrating.”

He knew she would try to talk him out of it, but he wouldn’t be swayed. He’d booked a karaoke room. He’d invited everyone personally. They would have fun, dammit. He'd bring the tacos himself.