Gemotions

The letter arrived, a pale cream envelope among the bills and junk mail. Inside, the dreaded announcement: Mr. Evans, the man who had instilled in him a fear of public speaking, was going to be his son’s teacher. His heart hammered in his chest.

The next day, he found himself parked outside the school, watching the children disembark. He followed his son, Michael, towards the classroom. He needed to be sure.

He made excuses to visit the school, claiming forgotten lunches and unexpected errands. He’d stand in the doorway, pretending to be distracted. He needed to assess the situation. He needed to know that Michael was safe.