Gemotions

The clatter of the cafeteria was a dull roar to Ms. Peterson. She was marking papers, lost in a sea of student mistakes. Then, a student from the art club, who she had tutored, walked over, smiling. She handed her a neatly wrapped present. Her eyes grew wide. It was from Maya, a student she had spent hours with, trying to improve her skills.

Her fingers fumbled with the ribbon, the paper falling away to reveal a handmade pottery mug, glazed in vibrant blues and greens. She spun it in her hands, her lower lip trembling. The mug was perfect and beautiful.

She was nearly overcome with emotion. She clasped the mug tightly and held it up to the light, admiring the intricate details. She knew exactly where it would be displayed in her kitchen.