Gemotions

David avoided eye contact with the other customers, pretending to study the dusty shelves of power tools. The scent of motor oil and stale cigarettes hung heavy in the air, a physical manifestation of his unease. He felt as if everyone could see the ring, a secret he was forced to keep.

He’d almost turned around at the door, but the rent was due. And he'd made promises. Promises he couldn't keep.

The shopkeeper, a younger man with multiple piercings, finally beckoned him over. David walked slowly, his footsteps echoing in the silence. When the man held up the ring, the light caught the diamonds, and for a moment, it shone like a beacon of everything he'd lost.

"It's a beautiful piece," the man observed, his voice devoid of any warmth.

David nodded, unable to respond.