Gemotions

Mr. Henderson sat in his worn armchair, the evening news a blur. He’d just finished grading a particularly tedious batch of papers and was feeling weary. The silence of his apartment felt heavier than usual.

A small package arrived, brown paper and tied with twine. He opened it, revealing a hand-carved wooden bird. A note was tucked inside. It read, "Thank you, Mr. Henderson, for always believing in me. - Kevin.”

He picked up the bird, turning it over in his hands. It was simple, yet clearly made with care. His breath hitched as he remembered Kevin, the shy kid who had struggled with self-doubt. He felt a lump form in his throat. He set the bird on the mantelpiece, amongst the family photos.