Gemotions

David stood stiffly at the school's open house. He knew Ms. Hawthorne's name. It was etched into his memory. The woman who had consistently berated his artistic endeavors, convinced he was a daydreamer with no talent. His son, Finn, bounded ahead, eager to meet his new teacher.

David’s pulse quickened as he saw Finn approach Ms. Hawthorne. She put a hand on his shoulder. David's brow furrowed. He felt the phantom sting of her judgment.

He cleared his throat loudly, trying to appear nonchalant. But his steps quickened to catch up with Finn. He planned on staying by his side the entire time.