Gemotions

The ceramic mug, hand-painted with a whimsical design, was clearly the work of a professional. The note from Liam Harding gushed about his success as a ceramicist. Ms. Evans traced the delicate lines of the painting, her fingers prickling with a strange unease. She'd known Liam as a quiet, shy boy. Now, he was famous.

As she sipped her lukewarm tea from her chipped, plain mug, she found herself making snide remarks about the mug to the other teachers. “Probably cost a fortune,” she said with a dismissive wave. The others were impressed with the gift. The principal took a photo and posted it on the school’s social media.

That afternoon, she deliberately took the long route to the staff room, avoiding Liam's old classroom, now occupied by the vibrant, energetic Ms. Rodriguez. Seeing her happy, smiling face made her uncomfortable.