Gemotions

The doorbell chimed, a cheerful sound that felt jarring in the quiet afternoon. Mrs. Gable peered through the peephole, her brow furrowing. Standing on her porch was a young man she faintly recognized, a former student, Mark. He was holding a large, ornate box tied with a satin ribbon. Her breath hitched.

"Mrs. Gable?" Mark asked, a nervous smile playing on his lips. "I… I have something for you."

Her hands trembled as she accepted the gift. The weight of it, the extravagance, felt completely out of place. Inside, nestled on crimson velvet, was a first-edition copy of her favorite book, signed by the author. She stood there, mute, her gaze locked on the inscription.