Gemotions

The Parent-Teacher conference felt like an interrogation. Steve, waiting outside the office, recognized Ms. Greene, the art teacher from his school days. The thought of all the times he’d failed art class, the messy projects, and the snickers from his classmates, made his stomach churn.

He felt a hot flush. He remembered the humiliation of having his artwork displayed in the "creative failures" exhibit. He shifted in his seat, wanting to escape.

Ms. Greene called his name. He steeled himself and entered, trying to appear composed, his internal reaction warring. He took a seat across from her.