Gemotions

The doorbell rang, and Leo flinched. He considered hiding, but knew that was a coward’s move. It was the caterers, he knew it in his core. Liam's bash, it was all he could think of. The same day, the same damn time.

He felt a sudden, urgent need to pace. His palms were slick with sweat. He kept running scenarios in his head, each one more awful than the last. Would people show up to his? Would they abandon him for Liam's?

He opened the door, a forced smile plastered on his face. The caterer’s cheerful greeting felt like a personal affront. Leo could barely make eye contact. He just wanted to get through this, to survive the day.