Gemotions

A coldness spread through Leo’s chest, like ice creeping into his veins. The ring, sitting there under the bright, artificial light, was a punch to the gut. It was his grandfather's ring, the one he wore every day of his life until he died. How?

He stood frozen, unable to move, his gaze locked on the glittering band. The shop's musty smell, a mix of old metal and stale cigarette smoke, suddenly felt overwhelming. The voices of other customers faded away, leaving him in a silent, suffocating bubble.

He slowly reached out a hand, his fingers trembling, to touch the glass of the display case.