Gemotions

The basement was cold and damp, the air heavy with the smell of mildew. John felt a strange sense of excitement as he descended the stairs. He’d inherited his mother’s belongings, and this was the last box to be opened. He paused, placing his hand on the top of the box.

He heaved a deep breath and lifted the lid. Inside, he saw file folders. He picked one up, his palms beginning to sweat. The folder was labeled: "English 101." He opened it, revealing a collection of essays, each carefully graded.

He scanned the first essay, his pulse quickening. He found his own handwriting and began to read, a slow smile spreading across his face. He knew his mother had been proud. He felt a sudden, powerful connection to her, a feeling he hadn’t expected.