Gemotions

The morning light streamed through the trees, dappling the yard sale in shifting patterns of sunlight and shadow. Sarah's shoulders were down, her pace unhurried. The vibrant colors of the discarded goods seemed to blur into a pleasant haze. She felt no pressure to buy or even to look.

Then, she saw him. Snuggled amongst a pile of well-worn dolls, was her old teddy bear, Mr. Snuggles. A wave of joy, soft and unexpected, flooded her. She smiled, feeling the corners of her eyes crinkle.

She picked him up, holding him to her chest. The soft fur and the faint smell of cinnamon brought back a flood of memories.

"Oh, my," she murmured, her voice barely audible.