Gemotions

The afternoon light cast long shadows across the cluttered lawn, and the hum of conversation buzzed in the air. Claire, usually a picture of composure, felt a knot tighten in her stomach. She saw it and froze. It was like a cruel joke of fate, finding him here. Her old teddy bear, Button.

She stared, unblinking, at the worn fabric, at the missing eye. She felt a burning sensation in her cheeks. She forced herself to breathe, pretending to admire a chipped ceramic dog. Her heart hammered against her ribs.

"Looking for anything special, dear?" The woman's voice cut through her thoughts. Claire nearly jumped, her hand flying to her mouth. She could feel every eye in the vicinity.