Gemotions

The school hallway seemed to stretch for miles, the fluorescent lights humming a maddening tune. Sarah's jaw clenched as she saw the familiar name tag: Mr. Henderson. *Seriously?* Thirty years. The man had to be older than dirt. She wanted to turn around and drag Liam out of the building, just to avoid this. She forced a smile and plastered it on her face, the effort making her temples throb.

"So, Liam," Mr. Henderson said, his voice a droning monotone that brought back unwanted memories of history quizzes. "Your mother and I go way back." Sarah crossed her arms, a muscle twitching in her cheek. She wished she had never come to the meet and greet.

Liam, bless his oblivious heart, beamed at the man. "Cool!" He looked at his mom, expecting a similar response. The forced smile cracked slightly. She just wanted to leave.