Gemotions

The notification popped up: "Mark Thompson sent you a friend request." Amelia’s hand trembled, nearly dropping her phone. Her breath hitched. She hadn't heard that name in fifteen years, not since the last day of sixth grade. A coldness spread from her chest, making her want to pull her blanket tighter. She stared at the request, the blue 'confirm' button radiating an ominous glow. Her thumb hovered, but she couldn't bring herself to touch it.

She remembered the way Mark used to corner her at recess, the way his voice would cut through the other kids' laughter. The way he would trip her, or steal her lunch money. A wave of nausea rolled over her. She got up and opened the window, even though it was already cold outside.

Her reflection stared back. She looked older, stronger, she hoped. But a familiar tightness twisted in her gut as she pictured him, the boy with the sneering lip, the boy who'd made her life a misery. The urge to delete the request and run was overwhelming.