Gemotions

The truth, laid bare on the screen of Emily’s phone, felt like a punch to the gut. Her daughter, Maya, meticulously curated a life online that was the antithesis of the quiet, studious girl Emily knew. Makeup, revealing clothes, and a constant stream of flirtatious messages flooded the feed. Her vision blurred, and she felt like the floor was tilting.

She sank onto the sofa, the plush cushions offering no comfort. Emily stared blankly at the wall, the vibrant colours of the living room suddenly dull. A strange buzzing filled her ears, a sound she couldn't identify. She wanted to scream.

She got up, her legs wobbly, and walked to the window. Rain was starting to fall, blurring the cityscape outside. It mirrored her own inner landscape.