Gemotions

The world felt muted, as if seen through a film of grey. Michael slumped onto the park bench, watching the leaves swirl in the autumn breeze. The air felt thick, difficult to breathe. This lethargy had settled upon him the moment he learned about Ms. Peterson.

He'd spent his own fifth grade terrified of that woman's exacting standards. He remembered the constant fear of being called on, the dread of a failing grade. Now, she was teaching his little Lily. The thought of his daughter feeling that same apprehension squeezed his chest.

He sighed, the sound lost in the wind. The swings swayed empty, a silent testament to the joy he just couldn't access right now. He just didn't know how to navigate this feeling.