Gemotions

He nearly tripped, his legs turning to jelly, as he spotted the familiar form from across the dusty lawn. Thomas. His childhood companion. It had been decades, a lifetime. The worn, brown fur, the missing stitching on one arm, every detail triggered a cascade of forgotten feelings. He felt a lump forming in his throat, and he swallowed hard, trying to appear nonchalant.

“How much for the bear?” he managed, his voice sounding oddly formal. The young girl running the sale grinned, holding out a grubby hand.

“Three bucks! He’s been waiting for a new friend.” He fumbled for his wallet, his fingers clumsy with sudden emotion. He had to have him. He paid the girl, and cradled Thomas to his chest, the familiar weight a comfort, an anchor to a simpler time.