Gemotions

Carol sat on the porch swing, the late afternoon sun warm on her face. The leaves were turning, the air crisp and clean. Her daughter, Olivia, was in her room, presumably studying for an upcoming test. This was the rhythm of their lives, comfortable and predictable.

She sipped her tea, the gentle rocking of the swing lulling her into a state of quiet contentment. The world felt muted, peaceful. She had a good life.

She picked up Olivia's tablet, thinking she'd check the news. A new notification flashed, on a platform she hadn't even heard of before. Curious, she clicked it, and immediately knew this was something that should have remained hidden.