Gemotions

The digital glow of the phone illuminated Amelia’s face, casting harsh shadows. Anger warred with a desolate emptiness. Her daughter, Olivia, had created this entire online persona without including her.

She had always been a constant presence in Olivia's life, a sounding board, a confidante, a cheerleader. Her own sense of self was interwoven with her daughter's well-being. This secrecy felt like the ground had crumbled beneath her feet.

“Olivia, come here,” she commanded, her voice sharper than she intended. She couldn’t keep the tremble out of her words. Olivia walked into the room, her face carefully neutral.