Gemotions

The last balloon went up, a giant, shimmering silver orb, and Amelia grinned. The park was perfect. Sunlight dappled through the leaves, illuminating the streamers she’d painstakingly hung. Across the green, she could just make out the garish inflatable castle being set up by Liam's party planners. She’d outmaneuvered him, securing the best spot. Her phone buzzed; a picture of the invitation she’d sent, complete with a map to avoid Liam's party. She let out a small, pleased hum.

Amelia clapped her hands, signaling the DJ to start the music. Children shrieked with delight as "Baby Shark" blasted across the lawn. Her own guests were arriving, smiles on their faces. A little boy, clutching a superhero cape, tripped and fell near the cake table, but Amelia was on him immediately, scooping him up and brushing him off. She felt a lightness, a buoyancy she hadn't anticipated.

She waved to her parents, who were busy chatting with other parents. The air crackled with excitement. A glance toward Liam's sad little inflatable castle, and she knew. This was her day. This was her victory. She adjusted her sunglasses.