Gemotions

The fluorescent lights in the classroom seemed to buzz louder than usual, amplifying the general sense of unease. Mr. Harris had been battling the same arguments with the students all week. He rubbed his temples, fighting a headache. His shoulders ached. He was completely drained.

He noticed a brightly colored envelope on his desk. He hadn’t seen it before. He picked it up, and opened it. Inside, a gift certificate to his favorite bookstore, and a note: "Thank you, Mr. Harris, for the inspiration. - Ben." Ben, the student who had inspired his passion for books. He smiled, the tension that had gripped him melting away.