Gemotions

Liam's pulse hammered against his ribs as he stared. There, nestled amongst a pile of gaudy costume jewelry, was a familiar flash of emerald. His grandmother’s engagement ring. He’d recognized the unique setting instantly. It was a long shot, he knew, but he’d promised her he'd try. His hands trembled as he pointed.

"Excuse me," he stammered, trying to sound casual, "How much for that one?" The shopkeeper, a woman with a mountain of tangled silver hair, squinted at him. She named a price, a pittance compared to the sentimental value. Relief washed over him, a warm tide that left him light-headed.

He practically skipped to the ATM, his mind racing. When he returned, he practically ripped the ring from the shopkeeper's hand, feeling the cool metal against his skin. Clutching it tightly, he could picture his grandmother's face, her eyes crinkling at the corners in amusement. He couldn't wait to give it back.