Gemotions

The chipped porcelain mug warmed her hands, but didn't touch the chill in her chest. Mrs. Gable stared at the small, velvet box. It had arrived just this morning, a courier package delivered to her classroom. The sender? Daniel Carter, the bane of her existence from fifteen years ago. He'd been a nightmare, disruptive, lazy, and utterly convinced he was too good for her English class. Now, a gift. She slowly lifted the lid. Inside, nestled on satin, was a delicate gold bracelet, intricately woven.

A laugh bubbled up, sharp and unpleasant. It was a gesture. She had to admit, the gold was beautiful. And expensive. She tossed the box on her desk, the bracelet still gleaming. Then she went back to grading papers, her pen pressing down with unnecessary force.