Gemotions

The bell above the pawn shop door jingled merrily as Maya practically bounced inside. Sunlight spilled onto the dusty display cases, making the chipped glass sparkle. She clapped her hands together, a giddy thrill coursing through her. Her grandmother's ring. The description matched perfectly. A delicate filigree setting with a tiny, heart-shaped diamond. She’d recognize it anywhere.

“Afternoon, doll,” the pawnbroker grunted, leaning back in his creaky chair. He didn’t look up from his newspaper. She inhaled sharply, trying to control the nervous energy that made her fingers tap against the counter.

“I… I’m here about the ring,” she blurted out, her voice a little too loud. “The one in the front window.” She pointed, unable to keep the smile from stretching across her face. He finally looked up, his eyes narrowed.