Gemotions

A small package arrived at the school, addressed simply to "Ms. Rodriguez." Inside, a single, smooth, grey stone, cradled in velvet. She recognized the handwriting; it was from a student, Samuel, who had been removed from her class several years ago. She had heard he was doing well.

She picked it up, feeling its weight in her palm. A chill spread through her as she remembered the circumstances surrounding his departure. The stone felt cold. She put it in her pocket.

The bell rang, signaling the end of her planning period. She slowly made her way to the classroom, her steps unhurried, her mind a whirl. The faces of her students seemed distant, muted. She sat at her desk, unable to fully focus, her hand instinctively touching the stone in her pocket.