Gemotions

Mr. Henderson stared at the oversized envelope, embossed with gold lettering that screamed "Congratulations!" He'd recognized the handwriting immediately. Tiffany Bellweather, a student who had constantly challenged his authority, now, apparently, felt some bizarre need to acknowledge him. He tapped the envelope impatiently, the paper crackling under his fingers.

He ripped it open, a gesture that was almost violent in its abruptness. A framed photograph, Tiffany in her graduation gown, beaming at the camera, lay inside. A carefully worded thank-you note followed, detailing how he, Mr. Henderson, had "inspired" her. He scoffed, his lips curling with an almost imperceptible sneer.

He tossed the photo onto the desk, the glass catching the harsh glare of the overhead lights. He'd never liked Tiffany, and he was even less thrilled by her unexpected gesture. He thought about throwing the photograph in the trash, but instead, shoved it in a drawer and went back to his work.