Gemotions

Eliza stared at the invitation, the glossy paper practically screaming "exclusive." Her best friend, Chloe, was having a karaoke night, a raucous affair planned for the same evening as her own quiet dinner party. Eliza had suggested a combined celebration, but Chloe had brushed it off. Now, Eliza felt a strange pang.

A coldness settled in her stomach as she considered Chloe belting out her favourite songs, surrounded by a crowd of people. She thought about how much Chloe loved to perform and how much she adored the spotlight. She pictured her grinning at the end of the night, full of joy. Eliza squeezed her eyes shut, hoping Chloe wouldn’t feel alone.

She adjusted the seating arrangements, adding an extra chair. Then, she opened her phone and began a group chat with a few mutual friends. "Just a reminder," she typed. "We're all Chloe's biggest cheerleaders, right?"