Gemotions

The car ride to the school was strangely quiet. Michael stared straight ahead, his knuckles white against the steering wheel. He felt like he'd been transported back in time. Mrs. Rodriguez. His old science teacher. The woman had always struck him as intimidating and unyielding.

He'd spent his days in the classroom trying to keep a low profile, hoping not to be called on. He did not want his son, Ben, to have that same experience. But he was sure Ben would not do well. The man was worried about his son.

The car stopped. "Have a good day, Ben," he said, his voice clipped. He watched his son get out of the car, then drove away, the silence of the car amplifying the pounding of his heart.