Gemotions

He moved through the crowded yard sale with a restless energy, his head swiveling, absorbing every detail. The scent of old books and freshly brewed coffee mingled in the air. His hands clenched and unclenched as he browsed the trinkets, his mind racing. He noticed a flash of golden fur, a faded patch, at the very back of a table.

His breath quickened as he pushed past a gaggle of gossiping women. The teddy bear, remarkably, was still holding its original bow tie. He remembered the feeling of that bow tie, how it had felt against his cheek, how it had smelled. His heart hammered a quick beat. It was the same one, he was sure of it.

"Excuse me," he said, his voice a little sharp. “How much is that bear?” The seller, a young man with a bored expression, muttered a price. The transaction was swift. He clutched the bear close to his chest, his gaze scanning the area for any sign of recognition.