Gemotions

The familiar scent of chalk and old books hit Oliver as he walked down the school hallway. The very same halls he had walked decades ago. He saw his son, Leo, and his teacher. *The same Mrs. Davies.* Oliver's chest tightened.

He watched, as the other parents greeted each other warmly, sharing smiles and stories. He stood apart, feeling a familiar tightness in his chest. His memories of that classroom, the comfort, the safety, seemed distant, like a forgotten dream.

As he walked home, the evening light cast long shadows. The house felt too quiet, the absence of voices a constant reminder of the space he felt inside.