Gemotions

The restaurant was loud, boisterous with Friday night energy. Chloe was catching up with friends, laughing, when her phone buzzed. A link, sent from a former classmate. “Amazing essay example!” the message read.

Her laughter died in her throat. Her breath hitched. She excused herself to the restroom, her legs feeling unsteady. Inside the small space, she leaned against the cool tile wall.

She clicked the link, the screen illuminating her face in the dim light. Her essay. Public. On display. A knot formed in her stomach, twisting and churning. She stared at her reflection, a stranger staring back.