Gemotions

The hallway was a blur of tiny backpacks and hurried footsteps. Mark's ears were ringing. He couldn't quite believe it. Mr. Davies. The very same man who had once made him feel utterly inadequate. His mouth felt dry, and he kept glancing back at the door as if he would disappear.

He'd imagined his son, Sam, would have an easy, carefree childhood. Now, he felt as if that future was under threat. The thought of Sam subjected to the same cutting remarks, the same subtle criticisms, the same cold indifference, made his chest ache.

He watched Sam go into the classroom and felt a wave of protectiveness so intense it was almost unbearable. He had to stay calm. He had to be strong for his son. He couldn't let his own past ruin the present.