Gemotions

The phone slipped from Elias's sweaty palm, clattering against the tiled floor of the bathroom. He snatched it up, his breath catching in his throat. He'd been meticulously crafting a text to his boss, explaining why he was late. Now, a rogue tap had sent it to… Sarah? Sarah from accounting, who he barely knew. A wave of heat washed over him.

He quickly grabbed his phone, but it was too late. The dreaded double-blue ticks were already there, mocking him. He pictured Sarah’s reaction, the slight furrow of her brow, the way she tilted her head when confused. He should have used a draft. This was his third tardiness in a month.

He ran a hand through his hair, dislodging strands. He could feel his heartbeat thudding in his ears. Should he call? Text back immediately and apologise? Maybe feign ignorance, claiming a phantom finger? The possibilities tangled in his brain like a knotted ball of yarn.