Gemotions

He watched the other parents chatting and laughing, the scene bright and cheery. He felt a coldness wash over him. The playground, filled with the shrieks of children, was the same playground where, years ago, he’d felt humiliated. His son’s teacher, Ms. Ramirez, was a familiar face.

He stayed on the periphery, unwilling to engage, his jaw set in a tight line. He felt an intense need to protect his child. He found himself constantly watching, assessing, anticipating any potential discomfort.

He kept glancing at Ms. Ramirez, searching for any sign of the woman he remembered. He felt a deep, profound unease. He wanted to scoop up his son and run. He hated this feeling.