Gemotions

The appointment was scheduled for three o'clock, but he arrived early, pacing in the school's waiting area. The smell of floor wax and stale air triggered a cascade of forgotten memories, most of them unpleasant. Mr. Thompson. The name on the office door felt like a personal affront. His son, Ethan, was going to be subjected to the very same lectures, the same power trips.

He ran a hand through his hair, a nervous gesture. He hadn't been this agitated in years. He felt a burning need to warn Ethan, to arm him, to prepare him. He knew exactly what this meeting would be about - Ethan's "poor" behavior, his "lack of focus,". He had heard it all before. He'd show them. He would make sure they knew his son was worthy.