Gemotions

The doctor’s words echoed in his ears, a relentless, painful refrain. "More exercise. Lose weight. Less stress." The weight of it all was crushing. He hated the advice, hated the situation, hated himself for letting things get this bad. He hated everything.

He walked aimlessly, avoiding the eyes of other people. He found himself at a yard sale. It was a blur of colors and noise. His eyes landed on a familiar form, nestled amongst a pile of broken toys and forgotten trinkets. Barnaby.

He picked it up, his fingers tracing the outline of its worn features. He felt an intense desire to throw the bear against the ground. He asked the seller, his voice tight, “How much?”