Down Bad

Ugly Insecurities

The sun rises gently over the preschool, casting a golden hue across the courtyard. Early morning dew still clings to the grass, and the air hums with the promise of a day filled with laughter and celebration. Mix arrives at the school long before anyone else, his heart heavy with anticipation. He straightens the decorations one last time, adjusting the bright banners strung across the yard, each one fluttering softly in the breeze.

It's Family Day.

Colorful booths line the courtyard, each set up by parents eager to contribute to the festivities. There’s a popcorn stand, a face-painting station, and tables laden with homemade treats. Balloons float lazily above, tied to the booths, swaying as though they too are caught up in the excitement.

As the sun climbs higher, the sound of laughter and chatter grows louder. Children begin to arrive, their eyes wide with wonder, their energy infectious. They rush toward the games, their giggles filling the air. Parents follow close behind, chatting and exchanging smiles, their pride evident as they watch their children explore the day’s wonders.

Mix stands near the entrance, greeting families as they arrive. He exchanges polite smiles and small talk with the parents, his usual warmth slightly dimmed by the weight in his chest. He knows today will be a test—not of his abilities as a teacher, but of his heart.

The courtyard buzzes with energy as the families settle into the festivities. Mix stands, taking a moment to enjoy the sight of children racing around, their laughter ringing through the air. Suddenly, a cheerful voice calls out to him.

“Teacher Mix!”

He turns to see Mint, one of the more enthusiastic parents, approaching with a wide smile. She carries a large, colorful bag that swings from her arm, nearly brushing the ground.

“Here, this is for you…” Mint says, reaching into the bag. She pulls out a headband and hands it to him.

Mix hesitates, blinking down at the headwear in Mint's hands because why white cat ears? Can he be a lion? A tiger? A wolf?

Mint giggles, clearly enjoying his confusion as she puts the headband on Mix's head, herself. “Today’s theme is animals,” she explains, adjusting the bunny ears perched atop her head. “I’m a bunny, see?” She taps her headband, the floppy ears bouncing slightly.

“Oh… okay,” Mix replies, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. He can’t help but appreciate the parents’ enthusiasm. Gently, he adjusts the cat ears on his head, feeling slightly self-conscious but touched by the gesture.

Mint beams at him. “Perfect! You look adorable,” she teases, winking before heading off to the other parents, distributing more animal-themed headbands.

Mix watches her go, shaking his head with an amused chuckle. He touches the soft fabric of the cat ears, a small warmth spreading through him. Despite the tension he feels about the day, moments like this remind him why he loves being here—part of a community that, for better or worse, always tries to come together.

As Mint hands out more headbands, he notices parents putting them on, laughter and lightheartedness filling the air. For a brief moment, Mix allows himself to relax, taking in the joy around him. The buzz of excitement intensifies when Mix spots Edin in the crowd, his tiny figure bouncing with anticipation. Earth walks beside him, his hand resting protectively on Edin’s shoulder. Namtan follows, and together, they look almost picture-perfect—a family reunited.

Mix smiles as they approach. “Good morning, Edin!” he greets, crouching down to meet the boy’s sparkling eyes.

“Teacher Mix!” Edin exclaims, throwing his arms around Mix’s neck. “I’m so excited! Daddy said we’ll win all the games today!”