Gemotions

The chipped mug warmed Mrs. Gable's hands, but not her spirit. The school board’s email was still fresh in her mind, a cold knot in her stomach. She’d always pushed boundaries, challenged expectations. Now, it seemed, she was being punished for it.

A small package arrived mid-afternoon, nestled amongst the usual bills. No return address, just her name scrawled on the brown paper. She ripped it open, a surge of irritation coursing through her.

Inside, nestled in tissue paper, was a hand-carved wooden bird. The note, written in familiar, messy handwriting, simply said, "Remember to fly." A former student, Liam, a kid who’d always been a bit…difficult. He’d butted heads with everyone. Now this, a gentle reminder? It felt like a taunt. She slammed the bird onto her desk, the wood thudding against the surface.