Gemotions

Thomas slammed his laptop shut, the abrupt sound echoing in the otherwise quiet apartment. He’d seen the request: "Brenda Miller wants to be friends." The name triggered a cascade of unwanted memories. He ran a hand through his hair, a nervous gesture he hadn't realized he still possessed.

He recalled Brenda's tears, the way her face had crumpled after he’d spread that particularly nasty rumour. He’d been so desperate to fit in, so afraid of being the outcast. Now, staring at the screen, the taste of ash filled his mouth.

He opened his phone, scrolling through his contacts. He found her number, his finger lingering over the "call" button. Could he apologize? Should he? He quickly closed the phone, tossing it onto the table. The silence of the room was filled with his own unease.