Gemotions

The crisp autumn air held a slight bite, but Leo hardly noticed. He wandered through the jumble of discarded treasures, a cup of coffee warming his hands. His shoulders were relaxed, his pace slow and steady. He had no particular agenda, just a vague sense of wanting to be outdoors, away from the closed-in feeling of his apartment.

Then, he saw it. Tucked amongst a pile of children's toys, was a familiar face - Captain Calico, his childhood companion. A wave of contentment washed over him as he recalled countless adventures. He felt his lips curve up slightly.

He picked up the bear, squeezing it gently. The musty smell of old cotton and cedar chips triggered a cascade of happy memories.

"That one's been waiting for you," the man running the sale said, a knowing look in his eyes.