Gemotions

The floral arrangement – a gaudy explosion of lilies and carnations – practically screamed for attention on the reception desk. A card attached, from Emily Carter, who'd been a nightmare in her English class. The woman behind the desk, a temporary hire, smiled sweetly. “A lovely gesture, Mrs. Gable,” she chirped. The gift filled Ms. Gable with a slow burn of frustration. She hadn’t even realized she was listed in the teacher directory. She glared at the flowers. They were far too showy and extravagant. She crumpled the card, hiding the name. The woman's simple kindness stung.