Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mirroring the tempest inside Mrs. Gable. Another rejected manuscript. Another stack of uncorrected papers mocking her efforts. She slumped at her kitchen table, a half-eaten sandwich congealing beside her. The phone rang, a shrill intrusion. It was the school secretary. “A delivery for you, Mrs. Gable. From a Mr. Davis?”

Her steps dragged as she opened the door. A florist's box sat on the porch, a splash of vibrant color in the gray gloom. Inside, a bouquet of sunflowers, bursting with life. A card was tucked in, written in familiar, looping handwriting: "Thank you, Mrs. Gable, for believing in me when I didn't believe in myself. – Liam Davis." A small, choked sound escaped her throat. She hadn't thought she'd made a difference to anyone.