Gemotions

My palms were slick as I walked towards the school. It was the first day back, and the butterflies were already doing acrobatics in my stomach, though not for the reasons most parents experienced. Seeing Mr. Henderson’s name on Lily’s class list was like a punch to the gut. I slowed my pace, suddenly captivated by a particularly interesting crack in the pavement.

My mouth felt cottony dry. I hadn’t seen the man in twenty years, hadn't needed to. Now, the past was barreling toward the present, and my daughter was caught in the crossfire. A cold dread seeped into my bones, making me shiver in the unseasonably warm September air.

“Mommy, are you okay?” Lily's small voice snapped me out of it. She tugged at my hand, her bright eyes questioning. “You’re acting… weird.” I managed a weak smile, pulling myself together.

“Just… excited for you, sweetie. Let’s go meet your teacher.” The words felt hollow, a flimsy shield against the tidal wave of anxiety threatening to consume me.