Professor Davies adjusted his tweed jacket, the familiar scratch against his back a comfort. He surveyed the dusty classroom, the remnants of yesterday's advanced physics lecture still clinging to the air like a stubborn perfume. He’d just finished grading the midterms, the top score, naturally, belonging to him, though he had to admit he was not surprised. That particular student had displayed a remarkable aptitude, a clear mind, a real future… unlike the rest.
A chime sounded from the reception desk, echoing down the hall. Someone was at the front office, and it wasn't the custodian, because his shuffling footsteps were usually so loud. The ringing had a certain celebratory lilt, he noted. A young woman, perhaps a little too perky for his taste, entered the room and gave a cheery wave. She bore a large, beautifully wrapped box. “Professor Davies?” she asked, her voice bright.
“Yes,” he replied, a subtle lift to his eyebrows. He waited.
“This is for you. From… a former student.” The woman beamed, practically bouncing on the balls of her feet. He took the box, its weight surprisingly substantial. It felt like fine bone china. He’d always encouraged his students to aim high. Someone listened.