Gemotions

The dance recital was coming up, and Maya was a nervous wreck. She posted a picture of herself in her costume, a hesitant smile on her face. A few hours later, her drama teacher, Ms. Chen, followed her.

Maya felt her skin prickle. She suddenly felt a strange heat in her cheeks, her heart thumping against her ribs. She usually enjoyed sharing photos, but now the comment sections, where she got her affirmation, felt like a public autopsy.

She wanted to call her mom, but she couldn't find the words. She spent the rest of the evening staring at the ceiling, feeling a profound sense of exposure.