Gemotions

The day had been perfect. The garden was thriving. The flowers were in full bloom. A light breeze was carrying the scent of the lilac bushes. She’d spent the afternoon watering plants, humming a happy tune. Returning to the house, she found Lily, her daughter, had left her tablet on the couch. A notification popped on the screen. She felt a tickle of curiosity and picked it up.

As the app loaded, a slow chill began to creep through her. The profile was set to private, but the profile picture was unmistakable, a blurry selfie of Lily with her friends. An unfamiliar username. A hidden world.

Her world tilted as she scrolled through the photos. Pictures of vaping, of parties, of a side of Lily she didn't know existed. All of the warmth that she felt was replaced with a sudden and intense coldness. Her hands trembled.