Gemotions

The aroma of stale coffee clung to Ms. Chen’s clothes. She was in the staff room, staring at the computer screen, the flickering cursor mocking her lack of engagement. The weight of the world, or at least the weight of grading papers, pressed heavily on her shoulders. She sighed, the sound swallowed by the quiet.

A package arrived, addressed with a familiar, looping calligraphy. Inside was a selection of exotic teas and a small, antique teapot. A note stated, "For those times you need a little peace. You always gave us so much. - Emily and friends." She carefully unwrapped the teapot, a sense of peace settling over her like a warm blanket.