Gemotions

The small, silver locket felt cold against Ms. Johnson’s skin. She held it in her palm, its smooth surface reflecting the dim light of her apartment. It had arrived that morning, a surprise from a former student, Olivia. Olivia, who had struggled to open herself up.

The locket was engraved with a single word: “Believe.” She opened it slowly, the tiny hinges groaning with age. Inside were two miniature portraits – one of Olivia as a child, and one of her as a young woman. Ms. Johnson had taught her literature, but she hadn’t taught her anything of true value. She had missed Olivia’s need for validation.

Her breath hitched in her throat, a choked sob escaping her lips. The world felt muffled, distant. The weight of her shortcomings settled upon her like a shroud.