Gemotions

The notification popped up: "Hey, are you at the university library? I’m here too!" Sarah gripped the edge of the table so hard her knuckles turned white. A prickly heat spread over her neck, and she felt a sudden dryness in her mouth.

She had to get out, leave the sterile environment. She gathered her things, her movements jerky and hasty, and practically ran from the room. She kept looking over her shoulder, imagining a figure following.

Outside, in the bright sunlight, she still felt vulnerable. She ducked behind a large oak tree, the rough bark against her back offering a small amount of comfort. She knew she was being irrational, but the feeling of vulnerability clung to her. She wanted to disappear.