Gemotions

The invitation to Parent-Teacher Night arrived, crisp and official in its envelope. Amelia glanced at it, a small smile playing on her lips. She’d handled the presentation at the company meeting that morning with such poise; this would be a breeze. She’d always been good with children, even other people’s.

Walking into the classroom, the familiar scent of crayons and disinfectant hit her. A wave of nostalgia washed over her, then quickly receded, replaced by a feeling of… mastery. She knew how these things worked.

Mrs. Gable, her son Leo’s teacher, approached. Amelia recognized the woman immediately, a small, pinched version of her own Mrs. Gable. “So good to meet you, Amelia,” the teacher said. "Leo is doing very well." Amelia beamed. “I knew he would.” She felt an easy, comfortable certainty, a deep well of knowledge she hadn't realized she had.