Gemotions

The notification popped up: "Mr. Henderson started following you." Sarah's breath hitched. She scrolled through his profile, meticulously analyzing every post, every like. Had he always been there? She couldn’t remember. Her phone felt heavy in her hand, suddenly a surveillance device.

She started seeing him everywhere. During lunch, his presence in the cafeteria seemed amplified. Every glance, every raised eyebrow, felt like judgment. She instinctively adjusted her posture, smoothing her hair, double-checking her outfit. The pasta felt like a lead weight in her stomach.

Walking home, each passing car triggered a spike of unease. Was he watching? Had he seen her arguing with her mom that morning? She quickened her pace, hugging the shadows, feeling vulnerable, exposed.