Gemotions

The gift basket arrived during recess, a welcome distraction from the usual playground squabbles. Miss Ramirez, the music teacher, recognized the familiar calligraphy on the tag: "For Miss Ramirez, who made music magic!" It was from Miguel, her shyest student, the one who’d blossomed when he discovered the trombone. A flush crept up her neck.

Inside the basket were artisanal chocolates, a selection of teas, and a small, beautifully bound journal. She opened the journal, flipping through the blank pages. Her fingers tingled as she ran them over the smooth, creamy paper.

She felt a stirring, a sudden need to be creative. She immediately decided to compose a new piece for her students. She ran to her piano, already hearing the melody in her head, her fingers itching to begin.