Gemotions

Michael, engrossed in his book, felt the prickle of unease before he even glanced at the glowing screen. A Facebook notification. From Scott. The name alone was enough. Scott, the bully, the instigator, the one who'd made middle school an ordeal. He was a successful doctor now, from what Michael knew.

He pushed his glasses up his nose, his hand trembling slightly. A flash of a memory, of being shoved into a locker, of the laughter, burned in his mind. He exhaled slowly, trying to regulate his breathing. He picked up his book again, but the words blurred before his eyes. The serenity of the evening, the comfort of his home, felt tainted, spoiled by the digital presence of someone who had once caused him so much anguish. He put the book down, and stared blankly at the wall.