Gemotions

The scent of baking cookies, usually a comfort, felt cloying to Maria. Her cheeks burned. She’d always envisioned a sophisticated afternoon tea party with her closest friends to mark her milestone birthday. Delicate finger sandwiches, tiered cake stands, and polite conversation. She pictured the small gathering she had carefully prepared.

Then, her friend, Chloe, had decided to throw a massive costume party. Loud music, boisterous laughter, and an open bar. Everything she didn't want. The thought of it made her feel a little sick.

She ran her hand through her hair, smoothing down the stray strands. A lump formed in her throat. Her meticulously planned celebration felt small, insignificant. She hated confrontation, but the hurt was beginning to show, and her usually cheerful countenance had fallen away.