Gemotions

The realization hit him like a physical blow. “Ms. Baker?” he stammered, his voice betraying a hint of his fear. The past, and all its memories, was suddenly pressing down on him. His son, Sam, was grinning and excited to start his first day.

His pulse quickened. He recalled Ms. Baker, her intimidating presence, the way she favored certain students. The memories, once buried, were now surfacing with a violent force. He felt as if he was drowning in the past.

He spent the evening trying to act normal, but the effort exhausted him. He kept checking his watch, the hours dragging by with agonizing slowness. He knew he couldn't change the past, but the knowledge did little to ease the feeling of dread that had taken hold. He felt completely unprepared.