Gemotions

The morning had been a trial. The principal had issued yet another mandate, and the students had been unruly. Mr. Evans closed his eyes, the fatigue burrowing into his bones. Even the sunlight streaming through the window seemed too bright, too intrusive.

A messenger delivered a box. He didn't recognize the sender. Inside the box was a collection of his favourite teas, and a card. It was from a student, Sarah, who had dropped out of school two years ago.

The card simply said, "Thank you." He gripped the edge of the desk, the words echoing in his mind. He sat and stared at the box. His throat felt tight.