Gemotions

The flickering neon sign outside the shop cast a hazy glow on the dusty shelves. He found himself drawn to the way the shadows danced in the cramped space. He stood with his hands in his pockets, listening to the shopkeeper's complaints about the price of gold.

He was in no rush. He ran his eyes along the shelves, the familiar scent of old wood and forgotten things filling his senses. A chipped ceramic dog, a tarnished music box, a stack of worn books.

The jewelry case, however, was his destination. He focused on the reflection of the flickering neon in the glass. He felt like he knew what he was looking for.

He noticed it at once. The distinctive setting. The intricate design. It sat, nestled amongst other forgotten items, quietly awaiting its fate. "How much for that one?" he asked, his voice steady.