Gemotions

The air felt thin, like he was at a great height. He noticed the way the sunlight hit the dust motes floating in the air, each one a tiny, dancing reminder of the passage of time. He squeezed his eyes shut for a moment. He hadn't expected to feel so... vulnerable.

The clerk behind the counter, a young woman with a bored expression, looked at him with an unsettling curiosity. He swallowed, his throat suddenly dry. He had to sound casual, nonchalant, like this was just a normal errand.

He gestured to the glass display. "Do you have… anything like, uh… an older engagement ring?" The words felt clumsy, inadequate. His face was hot.