Gemotions

The friend request from David Carter caused a cascade of discomfort for Thomas. He found himself looking everywhere but the screen. His palms turned damp.

He considered turning the phone off and pretending it had never happened. The memory of David and his gang on the school bus, the cruel laughter, the stolen lunch money, the feeling of utter powerlessness - it all rushed back.

He got up and wandered to the window, the digital notification burning like a brand in his awareness. He stared out at the street, a sense of disquiet settling over him.