Gemotions

The gentle rhythm of the waves lapping against the shore was the only sound for miles. Chloe sat on the beach, her toes buried in the cool sand, watching the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors. Her mind felt spacious, free. She breathed deeply, letting the salty air fill her lungs. Her phone buzzed, a jarring intrusion on the serenity. She almost didn’t bother looking, but she eventually did.

A friend request. From Brittany Walsh. Her stomach gave a slight lurch. Brittany had made her life hell in junior high. Chloe felt a shiver run down her spine. Why now? Years had gone by, and she was doing so much better now.

She swallowed. The memories were still there, lingering in the back of her mind. With a deep breath, Chloe clicked on Brittany’s profile. She had pictures with friends, a dog and family. She slowly clicked the "Ignore" button. She closed her eyes and took in the sea breeze.