Gemotions

Professor Armitage hummed, gently tapping a well-worn pen against his chin. Sunlight streamed into his study, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. He’d just finished grading the last of the essays, a satisfying click echoing as he shut his laptop. A fresh cup of Earl Grey sat beside him, the steam curling languidly upwards. A slight smile played upon his lips as he stretched, the muscles in his back giving a pleasant pop. The gentle quiet of the afternoon was just what he needed.

A chime echoed from the front door. He rose slowly, the comfortable leather of his armchair yielding as he stood. He peered through the peephole, a flicker of surprise registering on his face. It was Marcus, one of his more… enthusiastic students from years ago.

Marcus grinned, holding a large, artfully wrapped package. "Professor Armitage? Remember me? I wanted to thank you." The package felt heavy.