Gemotions

The notification popped up on Amelia's phone, a simple request from "Brad Thompson." She nearly dropped the device. Her breath hitched. A tremor ran through her hands as she gripped the phone tighter. Brad Thompson. The name alone sent a jolt of ice down her spine.

She stared at the screen, her heart hammering against her ribs. Years melted away, replaced by the memory of scraped knees, whispered insults, and the constant feeling of inadequacy. She swiped the notification away, then quickly tapped it again, her fingers fumbling on the glass.

“No,” she whispered, the word barely audible. She considered blocking him, but the impulse passed. Curiosity, perhaps, or something darker, held her rooted to the spot.