public backlash
The following morning, headlines and social media were ablaze with talk of Jess’s prank. Outrage was everywhere, and many couldn’t understand why I hadn’t stepped in. “Why are you just standing by?” one post demanded. My phone wouldn’t stop buzzing, each notification a fresh reminder of how completely this situation had spiraled out of control. It was clear—I needed a strategy, and I needed it fast, to fix this mess.
Public Backlash
overwhelmed by calls
My phone buzzed relentlessly with messages and calls, each one piling onto my growing stress. “Why haven’t you done anything?” friends and family demanded, their words sharp and accusing. Meanwhile, Jacob withdrew further, his silence more cutting than any argument could have been. He barely spoke, leaving me to navigate the situation alone. Every vibration of my phone felt like a knife twisting, a cruel reminder of my inability to act.
Overwhelmed By Calls
