Gemotions

The air in the classroom seemed thick, suffocating. He watched as his son, Alex, nervously sat at his desk. Mr. Carter. The name alone sent a jolt of unease through him. He recalled the countless reprimands, the constant feeling of never being good enough.

He felt the familiar knot forming in his stomach. He’d be damned if his son had to endure the same treatment. He found himself picking his nails, unable to sit still.

"Don't worry," he told Alex, forcing a smile. But he knew, in his gut, it wouldn't be that simple. He could see a long year ahead.