Gemotions

The afternoon sun poured through the front window, illuminating the dust motes dancing in the stale air. Sarah surveyed the shop, her hands clasped loosely in front of her, observing the chaotic arrangement of items. She found the disorder pleasing.

She’d been here before. She knew the shop owner, a man with a perpetually weary expression. He was currently engrossed in examining a pocket watch. She watched him, letting her thoughts drift aimlessly.

The jewelry case held a particular fascination for her. She moved towards it slowly, pausing to examine a chipped porcelain doll. The dolls, with their frozen smiles, always intrigued her.

She approached the case, her gaze settling on the selection of rings. And there, amongst the clutter, was a glimmer of something familiar. Her pulse remained unchanged. She tapped the glass. "May I see that ring?"