Gemotions

The flowers were delivered right at the end of class. Ms. Alvarez smiled warmly at the delivery man, though she felt the smile was stiff. The bouquet, a vibrant mix of gerberas and sunflowers, was from a former student, a teenager named Ben. She studied the card, written in messy, immature handwriting. It was a thank you note, for being "the best English teacher ever."

She wasn't sure if that was the intended result. Ms. Alvarez knew she was a good teacher, but 'the best?' The blooms, so bright and cheerful, suddenly seemed excessive. Almost… patronizing. She stood very still, her chest tight.

She was used to praise, but this felt different. It felt like an obligation. And more like pity than praise. She gathered her things, avoiding the eyes of her colleagues.