Gemotions

The shovel bit into the earth, yielding with a satisfying crunch. Sarah straightened, wiping a bead of sweat from her brow. She’d always considered herself a good gardener, but unearthing this… thing… was on another level of achievement. It was a metal box, pristine despite being buried who-knew-how-long ago. A small thrill ran through her.

She knelt, carefully brushing away the clinging soil. The inscription was faint, but she could make out her own, childish handwriting, the date scrawled clumsily underneath. A wide smile stretched across her face. This was a testament to her, a younger version of her, planning for the future.

The lid was stiff, requiring a bit of effort to pry open. Inside, nestled amongst yellowed newspaper, were a few trinkets: a collection of smooth, grey stones, a well-loved copy of "The Hobbit," and a faded photograph of herself, beaming at the camera. A giggle escaped her lips. This was a remarkable find, a reminder of a past she’d forgotten, and something she could boast about.