Gemotions

The kindergarten playground felt different, somehow smaller than she remembered. Jessica watched her son, Leo, swinging on the monkey bars as she spotted Mr. Franklin, the very same kindergarten teacher who, many years ago, had tried to help her with her painting.

She felt a sudden, inexplicable urge to hide behind the jungle gym. She was suddenly transported back to the messy art projects, the spilled paint, and the countless instances where she had to ask her mom to bring her a change of clothes. Her hands started to sweat.

"Jessica!" Mr. Franklin's cheerful voice boomed. He seemed remarkably unchanged. She managed a weak wave. This was going to be a long year. She would have to figure out how to navigate the same kindergarten.