Gemotions

"She's going to love you!" Susan chirped, handing her son, Ben, a packed lunch. "Mrs. Harrison is the best!"

Ben groaned, but Susan missed the hint. She'd been looking forward to this, the first day of second grade. The email confirmed it, Mrs. Harrison, the same teacher who'd given her nightmares as a child. Mrs. Harrison, who’d constantly questioned her abilities. Susan felt the warmth seep out of her face.

Now, she would have to face her every day. The thought of it made her feel queasy. She remembered the dismissive comments, the subtle, biting remarks, the constant feeling of inadequacy. She looked at Ben’s bright face and forced a smile, knowing she had to pretend everything was alright. The corners of her mouth ached.