Gemotions

The phone felt like it weighed a ton in Maya's hand. She stared at the screen, heart hammering against her ribs. The message, meant for her best friend Sarah, now sat in the chat with Mr. Henderson, her incredibly strict English teacher. It read, "Ugh, this essay is a total snooze-fest." She let out a shaky breath, the air thick with tension. Her fingers twitched, itching to delete the evidence, but the message had already been read. A wave of heat flushed her cheeks.

Her stomach churned, and she imagined Mr. Henderson's disapproving frown. He was known for his withering critiques. Maya sank into her chair, the world tilting slightly.

She pictured him, glasses perched on his nose, holding the phone, and rereading the message. Images of detention, failing grades, and a ruined future flashed through her mind. This was catastrophic.