Gemotions

The coffee tasted like ash in Michael’s mouth. The day’s events had left him with a sour mood. He slouched in his chair, staring at the permission slip clutched in his hand.

He'd just about recovered from the shock when he'd seen the teacher's name: Mr. Harrison. It was like a bad joke. The man was notorious for his harsh grading. Michael remembered the countless nights he’d spent hunched over his homework, terrified of his disapproval.

He sighed, the sound echoing in the otherwise quiet kitchen. He had a sinking feeling this year was going to be an uphill battle. He dreaded having to hear about Mr. Harrison from his son, and yet, he knew he was going to have to make a good face.