Gemotions

The chipped mug warmed Mrs. Gable's hands, but it did little to chase away the chill that had settled deep within her. Another rejection letter lay on her desk, the harsh black ink mocking her. Fifty-three years old, and still clinging to the dream of being a published author. She stared out the window at the rain-lashed playground, the swings swaying like empty, mournful ghosts.

Suddenly, a hesitant knock. A young man stood in the doorway, a shy smile gracing his features. He clutched a package wrapped in vibrant, sunflower-yellow paper. "Mrs. Gable? Remember me? I’m... I'm Alex. From your English class, way back when."

He placed the package on the desk. She could feel her chest tighten. She was always trying to be kind, to act enthusiastic, but the words felt like they were being dragged from a well of emptiness. Inside, nestled amongst tissue paper, was a first edition of *Wuthering Heights*. Alex had always loved that book.