Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled Mrs. Olsen's kitchen, yet she barely registered it. The basket, overflowing with artisanal loaves and homemade jam, sat on the counter, a stark contrast to the emptiness in her heart. A note taped to the handle read, "From a student who was always hungry, and the teacher who saw." It was from Leo, the boy who had once accused her of singling him out.

She had been a fool, hadn't she? Believing he had no potential at all, because he was loud and rambunctious. Now, she was left with this, a reminder of her shortcomings.

Her throat ached, and a single tear traced a path down her cheek, leaving her skin feeling hot. She picked at a scab on her hand.