Gemotions

The shop felt suffocating to Thomas. He squinted, trying to make out the details in the cluttered display case. He took a few deep breaths. Then he saw it: the ring. His grandmother’s. He recognized the unique shape, the distinctive carving on the band.

His brother, George, was marrying into money. His fiancé, a wealthy socialite, had already gifted him a luxury car. Thomas, by comparison, was struggling to pay rent.

He cleared his throat. “Excuse me,” he said, his voice unsteady. “How much is that ring?” The shop owner's gaze lingered on him for a moment before he moved the ring.