Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of Liam’s apartment, mirroring the turmoil brewing inside him. Sarah had been his best friend since kindergarten, and now, they were supposed to celebrate their birthdays together, as they always did. Then Maya, Sarah’s new girlfriend, had swooped in and convinced her to have a lavish, separate party. Liam imagined Sarah, surrounded by balloons and flashing lights, and a small ache formed in his chest. He felt an urge to protect her from whatever Maya might have in store.

He picked at the frayed edge of his favourite blanket, a nervous habit. The phone buzzed on the coffee table. Sarah. Liam took a deep breath.

"Hey," he said, trying to keep his voice light.

"Hey! Are you excited for tonight?" Sarah asked, her voice brimming with a happiness that felt… unfamiliar.

"Yeah, definitely," he replied, fighting the urge to tell her how much this all hurt. "Should be fun." He hoped she would enjoy herself.