A damper on things

Mental Health

Chapter one.

Principal Brink felt a shocking, but profound and unshakable hatred for the kid. It was a small elementary school, and he saw the kid often, in the hallways or on the grounds. The kid had never been to his office, had never been substantially in trouble; the principal didn't even know his name. But every time he became aware of the child's presence, he was overcome by a sickening loathing.

He underwent small crises of educational professional angst every time this happened. He was supposed to care for every child and work for their success. Principal Brink had no idea what to do, but he was certain he didn't trust himself to address the kid. He took to reclusive, paranoiac habits, waiting to go in hallways until he was completely alone.