Gemotions

"Don't forget your lunch!" John called after his son, Michael, as Michael skipped out the door. The fifth grade teacher, Mr. Davis, had been the bane of his elementary school existence, the man who had always found fault in him. A cold sweat coated his face.

John ran over to the front door, remembering the crushing feeling of Mr. Davis's disapproval. His own past was now intertwined with his son’s future. The world suddenly felt small, confining. John thought, would Michael face the same scrutinizing gaze?

He closed the door, suddenly feeling suffocated. The air felt heavy, and he had the urge to go back and check on Michael again.