Gemotions

"To Ms. Davies, a light in the dark," the card read. It was from Liam, a student who'd struggled with confidence but possessed a quiet intensity. He’d sent a small, perfectly wrapped box. She’d received it earlier that morning. Now, alone in her office during lunch break, she found herself hesitating.

Her fingers danced over the satin ribbon, her stomach tightening with anticipation. Inside, a handcrafted silver pendant, shaped like a soaring bird. She reached out and touched her neck, imagining wearing the object. Her lips parted slightly, and she felt a tremor in her hands.

She picked it up, and felt a rush of heat travel up her arms. She looked at her reflection in the dark glass of the window. The pendant glimmered in her palm, catching the light. She looked flushed, breathing faster.