Gemotions

The humid air clung to Amelia’s skin as she sifted through the dusty treasures at the yard sale. Sweat beaded on her forehead, and she brushed it away with a trembling hand. A week. It had only been a week since the final phone call, the one that ended everything. Her chest felt tight, like a fist was squeezing her lungs.

Her gaze landed on a familiar, worn face peeking out from under a pile of discarded toys. It was a teddy bear, missing an eye, its fur matted and faded. A wave of nausea rolled through her, followed by a sharp intake of breath. The bear… Barnaby. She hadn't seen him in over twenty years.

"How much for the bear?" Her voice was a croak, barely audible above the chattering of the other bargain hunters. She clutched her purse, her knuckles white. The woman running the sale squinted at her. "A dollar. It's seen better days, honey." Amelia fumbled for the money, her fingers clumsy, her eyes fixed on Barnaby.