Gemotions

The rhythmic clinking of the ice in her glass was the only sound in the living room. Carol took a slow sip of her iced tea, letting the cool liquid wash over her. Her feet were up on the ottoman, a good book lay open in her lap. Her son, Ben, was in his room, doing whatever it was teenagers did. All felt well.

The soft glow of the late afternoon sun painted the room in warm colours. She was thinking about a new recipe she wanted to try, a simple lemon cake. The quiet contentment of being alone for a few hours was a welcome change.

A message popped up on her iPad. It was a private message from a group named ‘Ben’s Secret Circle’. Curiosity overcame her – she clicked on the link. Panic flashed through her.