Gemotions

The clatter in the hallway pulled Mr. Davies from his grading. He walked to the door, peering through the small window in the door. A young woman, no older than his college students, stood there, carefully placing a potted bonsai tree outside his classroom door. He unlocked the door and stepped outside.

"Excuse me?" he asked, his voice cracking slightly. The woman turned, a bright smile on her face. He recognised her instantly. It was Clara, a student from his robotics class, years ago.

"This is for you, Mr. Davies," she said, her voice filled with genuine warmth. "For inspiring me." He looked at the tree, then back at her, his eyes widening almost imperceptibly.