Gemotions

The humid air of the pawn shop clung to Elias as he ran a finger along the glass display case. Each chipped surface of the jewels seemed to wink at him under the fluorescent lights. His grandmother's ring, a delicate filigree setting with a single sapphire, sat nestled amongst the costume jewelry. He knew it instantly. A flush crept up his neck, and he tugged at the collar of his shirt.

He cleared his throat. "Excuse me, how much for that one?" he asked, his voice suddenly thick. The shop owner, a man with a perpetually bored expression, pointed a nicotine-stained finger.

Elias leaned closer, his pulse hammering against his ribs. He imagined the ring on his finger, the cool metal against his skin. He swallowed hard, the muscles in his throat constricting. He could barely breathe.

He pulled out his wallet, fumbling with the bills. The shop owner named a price that was surprisingly reasonable. Elias didn't even haggle. He just wanted to get out of there, the weight of the ring in his pocket, the heat rising through him, a secret promise.