Gemotions

The tiny green circle next to Mr. Olsen's name on Facebook was a punch to the gut. Michael felt a sudden, sickening drop in his stomach. He'd been so casual with his online persona, sharing memes and opinions he'd never express in the classroom.

A heavy silence fell over him. He thought of his last history class, the way he'd slouched in his chair, texting throughout Mr. Olsen’s lesson on the American Revolution. He’d been rude and indifferent. He felt a profound sense of wrongness. He should have paid attention.

He closed his eyes, replaying the scene in his head, each perceived misdeed echoing through him. He pictured the teacher's kindly face, knowing he had somehow tarnished the perception. He felt like he should go and hide under the covers.