Gemotions

Maya slammed her locker shut, the metallic clang echoing down the hallway. Her face felt hot, a flush creeping up her neck. Mr. Henderson, with his perpetually cheerful demeanor and dad jokes, was *following* her. On Instagram! She'd posted a silly video of her cat this morning, a completely innocent and private moment. Now, Mr. Henderson, of all people, had access to her feed. She chewed on her lip, a knot forming in her stomach.

The cafeteria felt suddenly overwhelming. Every bite of her sandwich tasted like cardboard, and the noise of chattering students grated on her nerves. She kept glancing at the door, half expecting to see him, to have to feign a smile while he attempted to make small talk. It felt like her personal space had been invaded.

She texted her best friend, Sarah, a string of angry emojis. "HE'S FOLLOWING ME." The rapid replies didn't help. The sheer audacity of it!