Gemotions

Rain lashed against the car windows as Sarah pulled into the school drop-off zone. Her chest felt tight, as if a weight rested there, making each breath a struggle. She watched her daughter, Emily, scamper out, backpack bouncing. Emily turned, waving, and Sarah forced a smile. Then, Emily disappeared inside. Sarah stared at the empty seat beside her, the air thick with memories. This was the same school she'd attended, so many years ago.

The thought of walking those same halls, seeing the same classrooms, sent a shiver down her spine. Later, at the parent-teacher meeting, the principal mentioned Mr. Henderson, Emily’s fifth-grade teacher. Sarah’s hands clenched into fists.

“He's a wonderful educator, a true gem," the principal said, oblivious. Sarah nodded numbly. *Mr. Henderson*. Her own fifth-grade teacher. A wave of exhaustion washed over her. She excused herself early, needing to get away. The world felt muted, color drained from everything, leaving only a hollow ache.