Gemotions

The humidity in the classroom was oppressive, clinging to Ms. Rodriguez’s skin like a damp shroud. The air conditioning was broken, and she felt a constant pressure building behind her eyes. Another day of disruptive students, another day of feeling like she was failing. She slammed a stapler on her desk.

She was considering a career change. Maybe a librarian, or even a dog groomer. Anything that didn’t involve her being on the receiving end of insults. A small package, tied with a ribbon, was on the desk. Where had that come from?

A tiny card read: "Dear Ms. Rodriguez, You made a difference. - David." Inside the box, a collection of handmade origami cranes. David, a student from years ago who struggled with social anxiety. The delicate, folded paper seemed to absorb some of her exhaustion. She carefully picked up one of the cranes, her fingers tracing its wings.