Gemotions

The bus rumbled along, each bump sending a fresh wave of panic through Elias. His sister's surgery was tomorrow. The hospital bill, the travel expenses, the cost of lodging…it was impossible. He hadn't slept in two days, fueled only by coffee and a profound sense of helplessness.

He spotted the wallet on the seat beside him. It was a simple black one, nothing fancy. He opened it, and his breath hitched. The contents were shocking. He closed it immediately. His palms were slick with sweat.

He pictured his sister's face, the hopeful way she looked at him. His gaze darted to the other passengers, each of them a potential judge, each of them a reminder of his own desperate situation. The bus pulled up at the next stop and he had to make a decision.