The soft hum of the empty classroom was the only sound as Claire packed away her lesson notes. Golden afternoon light spilled through the windows, casting long shadows on the polished floor. She paused, her gaze catching a movement at the door.Mia stepped inside, her eyes bright but hesitant. "Ms. Claire?" she called softly.Claire smiled, feeling a flutter she wasn't ready to name. "Yes, Mia? Is something wrong?"Mia took a deep breath, clutching her sketchbook close. "I wanted to show you something… something I made."As Mia approached, Claire noticed the nervous hope in her expression. It was a look that would stay with her long after the classroom emptied — a look that promised change, and maybe, something more.Claire took the sketchbook gently, flipping through pages filled with vivid colors and raw emotion. "This is incredible, Mia. Your talent shines through every stroke."Mia's cheeks flushed. "Thank you. I've never shared my art like this before."
Claire's eyes met hers, and for a moment, the world outside the classroom faded away. "Sometimes, sharing the things we care about most is the bravest thing we can do."Mia nodded slowly. "I guess… I'm ready to be brave."