Gemotions

The air was thick with the scent of freshly cut grass and forgotten treasures. Mark, browsing the yard sale, spotted the bear almost immediately. It was in terrible shape, missing an eye and with stitches coming undone, yet he recognized it instantly. A sharp, stinging sensation flooded his eyes.

"Five dollars," the man with the grizzled beard said, pointing at the bear with a cigarette. Mark didn't bargain. He paid, his hand trembling as he reached for the bear.

He walked away, feeling a sudden chill despite the warm sun. He sat on a nearby park bench, the bear cradled in his arms. The world around him seemed to shift and blur, its colors becoming muted. He was unable to form thoughts.