Gemotions

The porch swing creaked rhythmically, a gentle counterpoint to the chirping of crickets as Ms. Albright settled into its embrace. A book lay open on her lap, but her eyes were closed, the late summer sun warm on her face. A barely perceptible smile played on her lips. She inhaled deeply, savoring the scent of honeysuckle that clung to the evening air. Her hands were folded loosely in her lap, and her shoulders were lowered, easing down. A small sigh escaped her. The world felt far away.

A shadow fell across the porch, and Ms. Albright opened her eyes. Standing there was Daniel, a former student, now a young man with a hesitant smile. "Ms. Albright? Remember me?"

She laughed, the sound light and airy. "Daniel! Of course, I do. What a surprise!" He held out a small, intricately carved wooden bird. "For you," he said. "Thanks for everything."