Gemotions

The silence of the evening was usually a comfort to Mr. Peterson. He often found himself appreciating the quiet. But tonight, it felt heavy, a reminder of the isolation he'd begun to feel as the years stretched on. He was preparing to close up shop when he heard a knock on his door. Standing on the step was his former student, Kevin. He held a well-worn guitar case.

"Mr. Peterson," Kevin said, beaming, "Remember that old folk song you used to play? I started a band and thought... you might like to hear us."

He felt the corners of his mouth lift. He couldn't help it. The weight on his chest disappeared. Kevin and his band played a short set, bringing a burst of life into his empty classroom.