Gemotions

The large, ornate package arrived during Mr. Davies' evening meal. It was addressed to him, from a former student, Emily Carter. He stood back a few feet as he eyed it. It was too big. Too elaborate. He was unnerved.

He remembered Emily as a bright, inquisitive student, but also as someone who was intensely private. He cautiously cut the ribbon, feeling an unfamiliar sense of apprehension creep over him.

Inside, nestled in layers of tissue paper, was a framed photograph of a lighthouse. He recognized the specific lighthouse. The one near her family's summer cottage. He felt a sudden, inexplicable sense of vertigo.