Gemotions

The laptop felt suddenly hot in Sarah’s lap. She slammed it shut, the click echoing in the otherwise silent house. Her daughter, Chloe, had been so secretive lately, always glued to her phone, whispering whenever someone entered the room. Now, Sarah understood. A hidden Instagram account, filled with pictures of parties, questionable friends, and a version of Chloe she barely recognized. A wave of nausea churned in her stomach.

Her breath hitched. She needed air. Rushing to the kitchen, she fumbled with the back door, letting the cool evening breeze wash over her. Leaning against the frame, she closed her eyes, trying to regulate her ragged breaths. It was a betrayal, wasn't it? A silent, secret life.

“Mom? What’s wrong?” Chloe’s voice, tentative and small, broke the silence. Sarah spun around, her face a mask of what she hoped was composure. “Nothing, honey. Just… enjoying the fresh air.”