Gemotions

Mr. Davies adjusted his glasses, a slow, deliberate movement. He leaned back in his worn armchair, the cushions molding to his form. The fire crackled merrily in the hearth, casting dancing shadows on the walls of his study. Outside, the rain pattered against the windowpanes, a soothing rhythm that had always lulled him.

He was examining a package, wrapped in brown paper, that had arrived that morning. It was from Sarah, a former student who’d always struggled with math but had persevered. He felt her letter in his pocket. It expressed gratitude for his support and a gift: a subscription to a classical music streaming service, something he’d often mentioned enjoying. He smiled to himself and set down his glasses. This was a good day.