Gemotions

He saw it from across the lawn – a flash of familiar brown fur amongst the chintzy porcelain dolls and chipped teacups. David felt his breath catch in his throat, a cold knot forming in his stomach. The teddy bear, its once-bright eyes now dull and faded, sat propped against a cracked birdbath. It looked exactly as he remembered.

His feet felt heavy, as if anchored. He willed himself to walk toward it, each stride an immense effort. The sun seemed to dim as he got closer, the cheerful chatter of the yard sale fading into a dull hum.

"How much?" he croaked, his voice strained. The seller, a young man with multiple ear piercings, shrugged. David handed over the cash without haggling. Clutching the bear, he backed away from the sale, eyes darting around. The street didn't seem quite right anymore.