Gemotions

The air smelled of old paper and dust as he searched the yard sale. A sense of unease settled in his stomach, as if he was searching for something he had lost a very long time ago. Then he saw it. On a small table, sitting among a collection of forgotten toys, was a familiar bear.

He forgot to breathe. His fingers tingled as he reached out, gently touching the soft fur. A feeling of immense happiness washed over him, a joy so intense it almost brought tears to his eyes. He felt a lightness, a freedom, a sense of belonging he hadn't realized he was missing.

He asked the woman the price, not even caring if it was too much. The woman gave him a price and took his money. As he held the bear, he felt the world go quiet. All his fears and worries, gone. The joy, the wonder. It was like he was a child again, safe, and happy.