Gemotions

Sarah shuffled through the grocery store aisles, the fluorescent lights humming a discordant tune. This was the third time this week she’d forgotten to buy milk. Her head ached, a persistent throb that matched the sluggishness in her limbs. She’d been feeling this way since Liam’s first day back at school.

The realization had hit her like a rogue wave – Mr. Henderson, the same man who’d given her a C in history, was now shaping her son's young mind. She pictured the stiff, starched shirts and the unwavering stare. A shiver ran down her spine.

“Mom, can we get those gummy worms?” Liam’s voice startled her. She forced a smile, the effort exhausting. Another parent, Mrs. Rodriguez, gave her a bright, cheery nod. Sarah just wanted to disappear.