Gemotions

"Following you." The words on the screen felt like a physical weight, pressing down on Maya's chest. Mr. Davies, her art teacher, was now part of her online audience. The man who criticized her use of color was now peering into her personal space.

She spent the next few days meticulously photographing her art projects, but subtly altering them. She’d swap out a vibrant shade for muted tones, or add a discordant shape to an otherwise balanced composition. She started posting cryptic comments about inspiration and creative processes. Then, she started taking photos of her friend’s art, which was… less inspired, and posting it with praises.

In class, he would glance at her work with a slightly puzzled expression. He’d offer a gentle, "Interesting choice, Maya," and she'd smile sweetly, knowing precisely what she was doing. A subtle triumph washed over her each time.