Gemotions

David adjusted his tie for the tenth time, the knot feeling suddenly too tight. He was already running late for the parent-teacher conference, and the thought of facing Mrs. Gable again filled him with a strange mix of dread and amusement. He could still vividly picture her, perched on her chair, her spectacles perched precariously on her nose, the scent of cinnamon always lingering around her. It had been nearly two decades, yet the memories felt fresh, particularly the time he got sent to the principal’s office.

He found Mrs. Gable’s classroom, the door slightly ajar. He took a deep breath and entered, offering a polite greeting. Mrs. Gable's eyes widened, a flicker of recognition crossing her face. He felt his face flush as she said, "David, isn't it? Well, I declare!" He hoped she wouldn't mention the infamous incident with the frog.

He sat down, immediately straightening his back, acutely aware of the way his shirt felt against his skin.