Gemotions

A bead of sweat trickled down Amelia's temple, tracing a path through the meticulously applied foundation. She stared at the notification on her laptop, the words "Friend request from: Jason Riley" blurring slightly. Her fingers hovered over the mouse, the click a daunting prospect. Jason Riley. The name echoed in her mind, a phantom limb aching with the memory of playground taunts and stolen lunch money. The deadline for her grant proposal loomed, and every distraction felt like a personal affront. She swiveled away from her desk, the creak of the chair grating against her ears, and walked to the window. The cityscape outside seemed to mock her unease with its constant motion.