Gemotions

The thought of Daniel’s beach bonfire on the same evening as her backyard barbecue made Maya’s hands clench into fists. Daniel had a knack for stealing the spotlight. He could charm anyone. She'd spent months planning her barbecue, a laid-back affair with homemade food and lawn games.

Maya, however, wasn’t going down without a fight. She bought the most expensive, loudest fireworks she could find. She also convinced the local fire department to conduct a special demonstration, just a few feet away from Daniel's party. She smiled.

The barbecue itself was meticulously planned. Every dish, from the perfectly grilled burgers to the artisanal ice cream, was selected to outshine Daniel's casual fare. Let him try to compete.