Gemotions

The relentless sun felt like a personal affront to Leo's mood. He’d hoped to find a vintage record player. Instead, he was surrounded by cast-offs. He squinted, trying to ignore the cacophony of bartering and laughter.

There, in a box overflowing with random toys, was a familiar brown lump. He picked it up. He hadn’t thought of it in years. Bartholomew. His childhood teddy bear, with a faded red bow tie and one ear hanging off by a thread.

"Five dollars!" the woman hollered, beaming. Leo's hand clenched the bear. He felt a dull ache behind his eyes. He wished he'd never come. He looked around for the record player.

“It's a steal!” the woman added, which caused him to take a step away and consider the distance of the exit.