Gemotions

The world felt muted. Sarah had woken up feeling as though she were wading through water. Every movement required an exhausting amount of effort. Even the vibrant colors of her classroom seemed dull, their brightness diminished.

A package, delivered to her door before she’d even managed to fully wake up, bore a familiar return address. It was from Michael, who'd been a quiet, almost invisible presence in her history class. Inside, was a collection of gourmet teas, each with a different calming herb.

"For when the world feels too much," the note explained. She picked up the card, tracing the words with a fingertip. She took a deep breath, and poured herself a cup of the chamomile tea.