Gemotions

“Oh, that’s so cute!” Her friend, Bethany, giggled, picking up the bear. It was a perfect specimen, its fur still soft and its ribbon pristine. It was a polar opposite from the bear she remembered, hers was falling apart before she even turned seven.

A flush rose in Amelia’s cheeks. She scanned the rest of the table, pretending to be interested in the mismatched teacups. Bethany was now negotiating the price, her fingers already stroking the bear’s head.

Amelia’s eyes began to sting. She mumbled something about needing to find a bathroom, hurrying off to the nearest porta-potty, the sound of Bethany’s laughter chasing her.