Gemotions

The gentle rocking of the hammock, suspended between two palm trees, was almost hypnotic. Mark closed his eyes, the warm sun bathing his face. He'd spent the morning surfing, and the feel of the ocean still lingered in his muscles. His mind was clear and empty of worries. A vibration made him open his eyes.

A friend request. From Kevin Peterson. His jaw tightened almost imperceptibly. Kevin. The guy who had made high school a nightmare. The familiar sting of the past seemed to momentarily return. He let out a long breath.

He had built a life on his own terms. He was no longer that kid. He clicked on the profile, stared at the picture, and slowly clicked the "Accept" button. He went back to the hammock and let the sun embrace him.