Gemotions

He had called himself "ZenMasterKyle" online. She, Sarah, had always imagined him as some serene guru meditating in a remote mountain cabin. Today, on a crowded bus, she saw him. He was hunched over, earbuds blasting, a bright orange energy drink clutched in his sweaty hand.

Sarah let out a small, exaggerated sigh, loud enough for him to hear. She deliberately took up as much space as possible, spreading her shopping bags around her seat like territorial markers. He didn't even notice.

When he looked up and she caught his eye, she turned away, feigning intense interest in a street performer juggling flaming torches. The feeling in her gut was a sharp, satisfying click.