Gemotions

Mr. Henderson stared at the large, flat package propped against his classroom door. It was addressed to him, from "Emily, your favorite troublemaker from 7th grade." A whoop escaped him as he wrestled with the wrapping paper. It was a framed print of a painting he'd always loved – a vibrant landscape he'd mentioned in class.

He ran a hand through his hair, a goofy grin plastered on his face. The print was hanging on the wall of his office before he even realized what he was doing. He stepped back, beaming.

"Wow," he breathed, tracing the frame with a finger. His heart felt buoyant, as if it was about to take flight. He was already composing a thank-you email, a string of exclamation points punctuating every sentence.