Gemotions

The text from “SunshineSparkle” read, "Park by the river, sunset picnic? 6 pm?" My stomach twisted. The river was a twenty-minute drive, beautiful, yes, but this felt like an invasion of my space.

I considered ignoring the message altogether. The thought alone was satisfying. I’d built up this online persona of myself, but never wanted to connect the real me with that persona.

The image of the river, the golden light, the potential awkwardness – it all coalesced into a knot in my chest. I wouldn't give her the satisfaction. I’d stay home. She could just sit there alone.