Gemotions

The notification buzzed, a tiny tremor rippling through Liam. Mr. Henderson, his history teacher, had just requested to follow him on Instagram. He stared at the screen, the blue light reflecting in his wide eyes. His fingers, usually quick to tap and scroll, now hovered hesitantly over the accept button.

He swallowed hard, the muscles in his throat constricting. He quickly clicked over to Mr. Henderson’s profile. It was private, of course. A few vacation photos, a picture of a dog, and…was that his classroom? Liam felt his pulse quicken, a frantic rhythm against his ribs.

He slammed his laptop shut, the sudden noise echoing in the quiet room. He needed air. He paced back and forth, each step measured and deliberate, his hands clenched into fists. This felt…wrong. He didn't know what to do.