Gemotions

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the park. He clutched the phone tighter, the screen reflecting his own anxious face. A new text from "StarryNight91" had just popped up: "Just got to Central Park! So pretty :)" His breath hitched. He scanned the area, eyes darting from tree to tree, from bench to bench. The online friend, who he thought was across the country, was now…here.

He ducked behind a large oak, heart hammering against his ribs. He’d told her so much, shared so many vulnerabilities. Now, the invisible barrier of distance had vanished, replaced by the unsettling immediacy of a shared locale. He ran a hand through his hair, a nervous gesture he hadn't realized he did.

He'd been so careful. So cautious. He took a few deep breaths, forcing himself to appear casual as he slowly peeked around the trunk. No sign of her. He told himself it was just a coincidence, a harmless outing. But the unease lingered, a knot twisting in his stomach.