Gemotions

The invitation sat on Maya’s kitchen counter, a bright pink square taunting her. “Sarah’s turning 25!” it chirped. Maya’s breath hitched. She’d already sent out her own invites. A knot tightened in her stomach. She reread the words, the date. The same day.

She paced the length of her apartment, her gaze darting from window to window. The street seemed unusually quiet. She checked the locks on the door, then again. She pulled the curtains shut, even though it was still daylight.

Her phone buzzed. It was a text from Sarah: “Can’t wait to see you at the party!” Maya typed back a curt “See you there.” Her fingertips felt cold. She imagined Sarah, smiling, oblivious.