Gemotions

The doorbell rang. He steeled himself, expecting the usual excited chatter of his friends arriving early. Instead, it was Sarah, her face etched with a look he couldn't quite decipher. She told him, in a hushed tone, that things had changed, that the plans were off. His breath hitched. He ran a hand through his hair, the gesture somehow frantic. A coldness crept into his limbs, and he felt a pressure building behind his eyes. He retreated into the kitchen, grabbing a glass of water that he couldn't bring himself to drink. The festive decorations, which had seemed so inviting only minutes ago, now appeared garish and mocking.