Gemotions

The storage room smelled of old books and forgotten things. Maya, her hands trembling slightly, pulled out a box labeled "Maya's Treasures." Inside were every single thing from her school years. From messy crayon drawings to handwritten stories, all in pristine condition. She sat on the floor, surrounded by the remnants of her youth.

She picked up a handwritten story about a brave knight, complete with crude illustrations. She remembered the feeling of pride when her mother pinned it to the refrigerator. A gentle feeling spread through her, like the warmth of a summer sun.

Her heart ached with tenderness as she looked at a report card with a few less-than-stellar grades. Her mother must have been worried, she thought, she couldn't imagine her ever having those grades. Her eyes glossed over with tears.